VATICAN CITY – As the Catholic Church prepares for Lent 2026, Pope Leo XIV has issued a call for a collective “disarming of language,” urging believers to prioritize kindness, empathy, and constructive dialogue over divisive rhetoric. The appeal, made during his annual Lenten message, comes at a time of heightened global tensions and increasing polarization, prompting reflection on the power of words to both heal and harm.
The Pope’s message emphasizes the importance of mindful communication, particularly in an era dominated by social media and rapid-fire exchanges. He specifically cautioned against the apply of language that dehumanizes others, spreads misinformation, or fuels conflict. This call for linguistic restraint aligns with broader efforts within the Church to promote peace and reconciliation in a world grappling with numerous crises, from armed conflicts to social unrest.
The pontiff’s plea resonates with the perform of organizations like Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), which supports pastoral and humanitarian projects in over 130 countries. ACN International reported in 2024 that it financed 5,335 projects in 1,224 dioceses, allocating over €139.3 million in donations and legacies to support communities facing poverty, discrimination, and persecution. This support extends to initiatives promoting education, formation of clergy, and emergency aid.
Focus on Vulnerable Communities
ACN’s 2024 activities demonstrate a significant focus on regions experiencing acute instability and violence. Africa received 30.2% of ACN’s aid, with particular attention given to countries like Mozambique, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria, where Islamist terrorism and persecution of Christians are prevalent. The organization also increased its support for Pakistan, where Christians face discrimination and challenges to their religious freedom. The Middle East, particularly Syria and Lebanon, remained a priority, receiving 17.5% of ACN’s funding, aimed at ensuring the survival of Christian communities and countering mass emigration.
Beyond immediate crisis response, ACN prioritizes long-term investments in the Church’s infrastructure and personnel. In 2024, 28.2% of ACN’s resources were dedicated to the formation of priests, religious, and catechists, a significant increase from previous years. This represents a commitment to strengthening the Church’s capacity to provide spiritual and educational guidance. 23.9% of funds were allocated to stipends for Masses and economic subsidies for priests and religious, ensuring their basic needs are met.
Global Reach and Impact
ACN’s reach extends far beyond these regions. Iberoamerica received 16.8% of its aid, addressing challenges such as rural exodus, migration, and the spread of sects. Ukraine, amidst ongoing conflict, received 8.9% of ACN’s funds in 2024, with aid directed towards addressing the spiritual, psychological, and material needs of those affected by the war. ACN’s aid to Europe totaled 15.9% in 2024. The organization supports projects in 137 countries, relying on the contributions of nearly 360,000 benefactors from 23 nations.
The foundation’s work is not limited to financial assistance. ACN also actively promotes initiatives like the distribution of a Bible adapted for children, translated into over 190 languages and reaching more than 51 million copies worldwide. This project exemplifies ACN’s commitment to evangelization and Christian formation across the globe.
Looking Ahead
Pope Leo XIV’s call for a “disarming of language” during Lent 2026 underscores the critical role of communication in fostering peace and understanding. As ACN continues its work supporting vulnerable Christian communities worldwide, the emphasis on both material aid and spiritual accompaniment remains central to its mission. The ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises globally suggest that the need for such support will likely continue to grow in the coming years, requiring sustained commitment from both the Church and its benefactors.
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