Pope Leo XIV is encouraging Catholics worldwide to embrace a different kind of sacrifice this Lent — giving up harsh, angry, and hurtful words.

In a powerful message about compᴀssion and human dignity, the Pope said that words can heal or wound, unite or divide. He urged believers to replace insults, gossip, and negativity with kindness, patience, and understanding during the sacred season of reflection.

The message quickly resonated online, with many praising the Pope’s call for more empathy and respectful communication in an age often dominated by conflict and hostility.