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Pope Urges Abstaining from 'Hurtful Words' During Lent
In his Lenten message, Pope Leo XIV calls on Christians to 'disarm our language' and cultivate kindness.
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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Pope Leo XIV has released his message for Lent, urging Christians to abstain 'from words that offend and hurt our neighbor.' The pope encourages the faithful to 'disarm our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment,' and instead strive 'to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect.' He says Lent is a time to let 'words of hatred give way to words of hope and peace.'
Why it matters
The pope's Lenten message reflects a broader emphasis in the Catholic Church on the power of language and the need to use words carefully and charitably, especially in an era of increasing polarization and incivility. By calling on the faithful to abstain from 'hurtful words' during Lent, the pope is encouraging a spiritual discipline that could have a positive impact on social discourse and relationships.
The details
In his message, Pope Leo XIV urged Christians to focus their Lenten sacrifices on 'disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment.' He said the goal should be to 'measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect,' allowing 'words of hatred to give way to words of hope and peace.' The pope's message aligns with the Church's longstanding teaching on the moral weight of speech and the need to use language responsibly.
- Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent is on February 18, 2026.
- Pope Leo XIV released his Lenten message on February 13, 2026.
The players
Pope Leo XIV
The current Pope of the Catholic Church, who has emphasized the importance of using language carefully and charitably.
What they’re saying
“This Lent, he urges 'disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment,' and instead strive 'to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect,' letting words of hatred 'give way to words of hope and peace.'”
— Pope Leo XIV (CatholicPhilly.com)
The takeaway
Pope Leo XIV's Lenten message underscores the Catholic Church's longstanding teaching on the moral weight of speech and the need for Christians to use language responsibly, especially during this season of spiritual reflection and renewal. By calling on the faithful to abstain from 'hurtful words,' the pope is encouraging a discipline that could have a positive impact on social discourse and relationships.
