Catholics in civil war-hit Myanmar have expressed gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for his call to peace in the Southeast Asian nation, which has been plagued by decades of conflict and repressive military rule.

Pope Leo XIV highlighted the essential role of sport in promoting peace, respect and solidarity in his address to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, on the occasion of the Angelus prayer. The message was delivered at the end of the Jubilee of Sport,

Pope Leo XIV spoke directly to the young people scattered throughout the audience at Rate Field Saturday afternoon, telling them that they are the “promise of hope” and that the world looks to them to help spread a message of peace and harmony among all people.