Peace Sunday 2026

Today is Peace Sunday, a day designated by the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and Wales as a day for us all to reflect on the Pope’s message for the World Day of Peace on the 1st January.

The theme chosen by Pope Leo for his message this year is a challenging one: “Peace to you all: Towards an ‘unarmed and disarming’ peace”.

One image that may help us engage in this message is to reflect on Jesus before Pilate -standing there, an innocent man, seemingly helpless, before Pontus Pilate, a Roman Governor. 

It is so easy to feel helpless in a world of violence today. The nonviolent action of Jesus can be our guide in working for peace and justice. Pax Christi tries to give a lead in this process.  A movement founded 80 years ago in France to pray for reconciliation between two nations, Germany and France, it has since become an International Peace Movement.

Bishop John Arnold in Salford diocese, representing the Bishops Conference of England and Wales, writes:  “Pope Leo is telling us that peace should not rely on fear, threats or weapons.  Peace should have the capacity to resolve conflicts and open hearts through mutual understanding and hope”

The Pax Christi movement tries to respond to this aim through publications, prayer, public witness and nonviolent action. 

We are in a world torn by violence and war; a time of uncertainty; a time when strong leadership can help disperse doubt and show a positive way forward in full hope.

Pax Christi tries to give practical expression to this hope through its outreach work in promoting the Gospel message of nonviolence and offering peace education in schools.

It is a national organisation but with a small committed staff team.

The generosity of parish communities each year makes a big difference to the funds needed for its vital work to continue.

You are asked to pray for peace in our world and for the success of Pax Christi by donating in a second collection today.

Your help is very much appreciated.  Thank you for listening to this message.

May God continue to help us all to be instruments of his peace. 

Given in Catholic churches today from Pax Christi