Pope criticises nationalism and prays for reconciliation

Pope Leo XIV waving to the faithful gathered in St Peter’s Square in Rome on Sunday. Picture: Andrew Medichini/AP

Pope Leo has criticised the surge of nationalist political movements in the world as he prayed for reconciliation and dialogue – a message in line with his pledges to make the Catholic Church a symbol of peace.

The Pope celebrated Sunday Mass in St Peter’s Square in front of tens of thousands of faithful, and asked the Holy Spirit to “break down barriers and tear down the walls of indifference and hatred”.