Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin Urges an End to "Foolishness" of War and Calls for Inclusion of Traditional Mass Devotees

 

The Vatican on March 26, 2026, released that Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin addressed several pressing issues—ranging from international conflict to Italian domestic politics and liturgical disputes—during two separate events at the Vatican Apostolic Library and the Chamber of Deputies.

🕊️ A Call for Peace in the Holy Land

In anticipation of Easter, Cardinal Parolin characterized the holiday as the "celebration of peace" and issued a blunt appeal to global leaders.

• The "Foolishness" of War: He urged an immediate end to the ongoing violence, specifically warning leaders like Donald Trump and Israeli officials that the risk of regional escalation is imminent. "Easter is the celebration of peace, the peace of the Risen Lord, and therefore it is a special occasion to renew this invitation and put an end to this foolishness that is war."

• Holy Week Restrictions: Parolin expressed deep concern for Christians in the Holy Land facing severe movement restrictions, hoping that, at a minimum, sacred rites can be celebrated within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

 Italian Politics & the Justice Referendum

Following a high-turnout referendum on justice that resulted in a "No" vote, the Cardinal reflected on the state of Italian democracy:

• Civic Engagement: He admitted surprise at the "remarkable turnout," suggesting that the high participation reflects a "wisdom" that all political sides should respect.

• Unity Over Conflict: Parolin warned against aimless political infighting, stating that "conflict that serves no purpose for the good of society is worrying." He urged the government to find synergy and prioritize the common good during this "painful" international period.

⛪ Liturgy: A Call for Reconciliation

Addressing the ongoing tension surrounding the Vetus Ordo (the traditional Mass), Parolin echoed the sentiments of Pope Leo XIV:

• Wounds in the Church: He described the liturgical debate as a "painful wound" that continues to divide the faithful. The cardinal was asked about the Old Mass, following the publication of the Pope's message—signed by the Secretary of State himself—to the French bishops gathered in plenary session. In it, Leo XIV expressed concern that "a painful wound continues to open up in the Church regarding the celebration of the Mass" and called for "the generous inclusion of those sincerely attached to the Vetus Ordo ."

• Avoiding the "Battlefield": He called for the generous inclusion of those attached to traditional rites, emphasizing that the liturgy should never be a source of division. He expressed hope for a "formula" that meets legitimate spiritual needs without turning the Mass into a battlefield. Along the same lines, Parolin reiterated that "the liturgy must not become a source of conflict and division among us." "It will be a matter of finding a formula that can meet legitimate needs. I believe it can be achieved, without turning the liturgy into a battlefield."

• Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/it/vaticano/news/2026-03/parolin-biblioteca-apostolica-guerra-referendum-messa-latino.html