Pope Francis Calls for Global Peace Amid Ongoing Conflicts
Pope Francis pleaded for peace worldwide amid ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing that "a negotiated peace is better than a war without end." During an interview with CBS News, the pontiff urged all countries at war to cease hostilities and seek peaceful resolutions.
The pope has been actively addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict and recently made a strong appeal for a cease-fire in Gaza and a prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine during his Easter Sunday Mass.
Expressing his concern for the situation in Gaza, Pope Francis revealed that he speaks to parishioners in the region daily to understand their struggles. The United Nations has issued warnings about an impending famine and the dire conditions faced by Palestinians.
When asked about his role in negotiating peace, the pope humbly stated, "I can pray," emphasizing the power of prayer in seeking solutions to conflicts around the world.
Also on the pope's mind is the war in Ukraine and the devastating effects Russia's invasion of the U.S. ally has had on Ukrainian children.
"Those kids don't know how to smile," the pope said. "I tell them something, but they forgot how to smile. And this is very hard when a child forgets to smile. That's really very serious. Very serious."
The Vatican will be hosting the first World Children's Day in May — a two-day event dedicated to children ages 5 to 12. The event seeks to answer, "What kind of world do we want to leave to the children who are growing up now?"
"Children always bear a message," the 87-year-old pontiff said. "They bear a message. And it is a way for us to have a younger heart."
He also had a message for those who do not see a place for themselves in the Catholic Church anymore.
"I would say that there is always a place, always. If in this parish the priest doesn't seem welcoming, I understand, but go and look elsewhere, there is always a place," he said. "Do not run away from the Church. The Church is very big. It's more than a temple ... you shouldn't run away from her."
Exclusive Interview with Pope Francis
Don't miss the extended interview with Pope Francis on 60 Minutes! Tune in on Sunday, May 19, at 7 p.m. ET to catch O'Donnell's in-depth conversation with the Pope. If you can't make it, mark your calendar for Monday, May 20, when CBS will air a special primetime event at 10 p.m. ET on the CBS Television Network and Paramount+. This special will be dedicated to the enlightening interview with Pope Francis. And for those who prefer to stay connected online, CBS News and Stations will be sharing the interview across various platforms.
