Pope Leo XIV opens 2026 urging world to reject violence in powerful New Year's Day message

Pope Leo XIV appeals for global peace in 2026 New Year's Day address, urging people worldwide to reject violence and commit to reconciliation during his first Angelus of the year.

Emma Bussey is a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital. Before joining Fox, she worked at The Telegraph with the U.S. overnight team, across desks including foreign, politics, news, sport and culture. 

Around 40,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square in Rome to hear the pope’s New Year's Day message on the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, which also coincides with World Day of Peace.