Pope Leo XIV Says World Is ‘in Flames’ at Ash Wednesday Service

Pope Leo XIV Says World Is ‘in Flames’ at Ash Wednesday Service
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In his first Ash Wednesday homily since becoming pontiff, Pope Leo XIV cautioned worshippers that the world is “in flames” due to ongoing wars and environmental devastation, drawing parallels between global crises and the symbolic ashes used in the Lent observance.

The address took place on February 18, at the Basilica of Santa Sabina on Rome’s Aventine Hill, marking the beginning of the 40-day Lenten season, a period of fasting, reflection and preparation for Easter.

In his remarks, Pope Leo said that the ashes Christians receive on Ash Wednesday — traditionally a reminder of human mortality — could also represent “the weight of a world that is ablaze” and “entire cities destroyed by war.” He added that the ashes might symbolize “the ashes of international law and justice among peoples” and “the ashes of entire ecosystems,” reflecting deep concerns about global conflict and environmental damage.

“It is so easy to feel powerless in the face of a world that is in flames,” the Pope said, urging Catholics to embrace the Lenten disciplines of fasting, prayer and charity, and to remember the needy during the season.

Pope Leo, who became leader of the Roman Catholic Church in May 2025 — succeeding the late Pope Francis — did not single out specific wars in his Ash Wednesday homily but has previously voiced criticism of global violence and “a global zeal for war.”