Concluding his pastoral visit to Naples, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful appeal for the city to become a “workshop of peace,” urging communities to reject violence, corruption, and social division in favor of solidarity and hope.

Speaking before thousands gathered for the closing Mᴀss, the Pope praised the resilience, faith, and cultural richness of Naples while acknowledging the challenges faced by many families, including poverty, organized crime, unemployment, and youth insecurity. He emphasized that peace is not built through fear or force, but through education, justice, compᴀssion, and mutual responsibility.

“A workshop of peace is created where people choose dialogue over hatred and hope over despair,” Pope Leo declared to loud applause from the crowd. He encouraged young people in particular to become builders of a more humane society, resisting the temptations of violence and indifference.

During the visit, the Pontiff met with clergy, local officials, charitable organizations, and families affected by economic hardship. Vatican observers described the trip as one of the most socially focused moments of his pontificate so far.

Pope Leo concluded his visit by entrusting Naples to the protection of the Virgin Mary and praying that the city may become “a beacon of reconciliation, dignity, and peace for all of southern Italy.”