Vatican announces World Day of Peace and release of Pope Leo's new book

World Day of Peace, January 1, 2026

Pope Leo XIV has chosen the theme for the 2026 World Day of Peace:  “Peace be with you all: Towards an unarmed and disarming peace.” The annual observance is set for January 1, the liturgical Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God.

"This peace must be unarmed, that is, not based on fear, threats or weapons,” the pope said. “And it must be disarming, capable of resolving conflicts, opening hearts and generating mutual trust, empathy and hope. It is not enough to call for peace. We must embody it in a way of life that rejects every form of violence, whether it be visible or systemic.”

The terminology "unarmed and disarming" is attributed to the Blessed Charles-Marie Christian de Chergé, O.C.S.O, a French monk, who urged believers to seek peace, understanding and reconciliation among different religious communities.

New Book of Pope Leo’s speeches

The Vatican Publishing House (LEV) has announced Pope Leo’s new book, “And let there be peace! Words to the Church and the world.” It is being released in English, Italian and Spanish.

The book includes the pope’s first public addresses with a recurring theme of peace, addressing God’s primacy and the communion of the Church. According to Pope Leo, “Peace begins with each one of us: in the way we look at others, listen to others and speak about others.”