Pope Leo's Colosseum Vigil: A Call to Conscience

Pope Leo led a poignant, candle-lit service at Rome's Colosseum on Good Friday, drawing thousands of Catholics to pray for the world's war orphans and deported immigrant children. The pope cautioned global leaders, insisting that their decisions will face divine judgment.

Emerging as a vocal critic of the Iran war, Pope Leo, the first U.S. pontiff, presided over spiritual meditations that stressed social justice issues. During the traditional Via Crucis procession, he carried a wooden cross, pausing at key points to reflect on Bible readings and meditations.

The texts, crafted by an Italian priest and chosen by Leo, deliberately avoided mentioning specific leaders, yet rallied prayers for refugees, victims of human trafficking, and imprisoned children. The service was part of the Easter celebrations, culminating in a blessing from St. Peter's Basilica.