Pope Leo XIV Prays for Nigeria Attack Victims

Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep sorrow over the recent violent attacks in Nigeria. He assured victims and their families of his prayers and spiritual closeness. In addition, he urged authorities to strengthen security and protect every citizen.

The pope delivered the message on Feb. 8 after the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square.

“It is with sorrow and concern that I learned of the recent attacks against various communities in Nigeria,” he said. He also extended his prayerful support to all affected by violence and terrorism.

Violence Spreads Across Nigerian Communities

According to reports from Vatican agency Fides, armed groups carried out coordinated attacks in several Nigerian states, including Kaduna and Niger.

The assailants killed residents and abducted others. They burned police stations and targeted churches and diocesan buildings. Moreover, they vandalized a Catholic clinic. As a result, many families fled their homes for safety.

Among the kidnapped victims was Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, parish priest of Holy Trinity Parish in Karku. The Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed the abduction. Meanwhile, Church leaders entrusted the captives to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and prayed for their safe return.

True Joy Comes from Living the Gospel

Before the Angelus prayer, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the Gospel passage where Jesus called his disciples “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.”

He linked the message to authentic Christian joy.

“Genuine joy gives flavor to life and brings light where there was darkness,” the pope said. He explained that this joy flows from communion with Christ. It grows through daily choices that reflect Jesus’ way of life.

He described Jesus’ poverty of spirit, meekness, simplicity of heart, and hunger for justice as paths that unlock mercy and peace. These virtues, he said, transform hearts and rebuild communities.

Do Not Lose Hope

The pope acknowledged that many people struggle with discouragement. He admitted that it hurts to lose joy. However, he warned believers not to surrender to despair.

“God never discards anyone,” he reminded the faithful.

He encouraged Christians to welcome the Beatitudes. He said God heals even the deepest wounds when believers return to the Gospel path.

Charity and the Eucharist Restore Joy

Furthermore, Pope Leo XIV stressed that concrete acts of charity rekindle joy. Faith, he said, must express itself through love in action.

He encouraged Christians to remain rooted in the Eucharist. There, believers encounter what he described as the “true flavor” of life. Every Sunday, the Bread that is broken reminds the faithful of a life given in silent love.

Through charity and worship, joy becomes visible and contagious.

Beatification and Fight Against Human Trafficking

After the Angelus, the pope also mentioned the beatification of Father Salvatore Valera Parra in Huércal-Overa, Spain. He praised the priest for his humility and dedication to pastoral charity. He urged today’s priests to follow his example of simplicity and faithfulness.

Marking the memorial of St. Josephine Bakhita, the Church also observed the World Day of Prayer and Reflection Against Human Trafficking.

“I thank the religious and all those who fight modern forms of slavery,” the pope said. “Peace begins with dignity.”

Prayer for Flood Victims and Global Peace

In addition, Pope Leo XIV assured prayers for communities affected by floods and landslides in Portugal, Morocco, Spain, and southern Italy. He encouraged those impacted to remain united and support one another under the protection of the Virgin Mary.

Finally, he renewed his appeal for peace across the world.

History, he noted, shows that economic and military power alone cannot secure humanity’s future. Rather, lasting peace grows from respect and fraternity among peoples.