Urges Prayer and Action for a Hunger-Free World
Pope Leo XIV has invited Catholics across the world to unite in prayer this May, with a heartfelt intention: that everyone might have food.
In the latest “Pray with the Pope” video, prepared by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, the Holy Father expresses deep concern over the growing global hunger crisis. He notes with sorrow that millions of people continue to suffer from food insecurity, even as vast amounts of food are wasted daily.
The Pope calls for a renewed sense of responsibility, urging the faithful to adopt simpler lifestyles marked by gratitude, moderation, and generosity. He emphasizes that food is not merely for consumption, but a gift meant to be shared, reminding believers that the fruits of the earth are intended for all, not just a privileged few.
Beyond prayer, the Pope encourages concrete action. He highlights the importance of community-driven initiatives such as food banks, awareness campaigns, and responsible consumption habits that promote dignity and care for others. At the heart of his message is a call to transform selfish habits into a culture of solidarity.
The global scale of the crisis underscores the urgency of this intention. According to the World Food Programme, an estimated 318 million people could face severe food insecurity in 2026, with ongoing conflicts threatening to worsen the situation for millions more.
In his concluding prayer, Pope Leo XIV asks for hearts that hunger for justice and thirst for fraternity, envisioning a world where no one is excluded from the table. His message stands as both a spiritual appeal and a moral challenge, to pray, to reflect, and to act.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amén.
Lord of creation,
You gave us the fertile earth and, with it, our daily bread,
as a sign of Your love and providence.
Today we recognize with sorrow
that millions of brothers and sisters continue to suffer from hunger,
while so many goods are wasted at our tables.
Awaken in us a new awareness:
that we learn to thank for every food,
to consume simply,
to share with joy,
and to care for the fruits of the earth as a gift from You,
destined for all, not just a few.
Good Father,
make us capable of transforming the logic of selfish consumption
into a culture of solidarity.
May our communities promote concrete gestures:
awareness campaigns, food banks,
and a sober and responsible lifestyle.
You who sent us Your beloved Son Jesus,
broken bread for the life of the world,
give us a new heart, hungry for justice and thirsty for fraternity.
May no one be excluded from the common table,
and may Your Spirit teach us to see bread
not as an object of consumption,
but as a sign of communion and care.
Amen.
