Leo did not address any world leaders by name, but his remarks can be read as a rebuke to several.
He spoke with sadness about what he called the rise of a globalized apathy, in reference to some of the last words of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who died almost a year ago.
“We are becoming more and more accustomed to violence, self-sacrifice, and indifference,” Leo said. “Indifference to the deaths of thousands of people. Indifference to the effects of hatred and division that conflict breeds. Indifference to the resulting economic and social consequences, which we all feel.”
He encouraged his followers to draw inspiration from the story of Easter, the day Christians celebrate their belief that Jesus rose from the dead after being brutally murdered days ago.
“The cross of Christ always reminds us of the suffering and pain surrounding death and the pain it entails,” Leo said. “We all fear death, and in fear we turn back, preferring not to look. We cannot continue to be indifferent!”
