January 1st marks the beginning of the calendar year and also is the eighth day of the Octave of Christmas, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, as explained in Theotokos. Pope Leo XIV just celebrated Mass in the basilica on this solemn feast day, a mass for Mary.
At angelus prayer from the balcony – Pope Leo XIV announces today’s dedication of angelus prayer and mass for Mary which is mass for Peace to officially kick 2026 journey. Pope Leo calls all Catholics to pray together for peace. First, for peace between nations bloodied by conflict and misery. Second, particularly to our own homes and families who are wounded by violence and suffering whereas the hope and sun of justice seem at its distance to arrive.
Last September 2025 at UN General Assembly, António Guterres – Secretary General reminded member countries “The only way forward is together “. Peace is the most courageous, the most practical, the most necessary pursuit of all. From eradicating smallpox to healing the ozone layer to prevent a third world war, over the last 80 years the UN has led the way to some of humanity’s greatest triumphs.
At the 2026 New Year’s Message; UN Chief calls all Chief of States to get the priorities straight by having a safer world which means investing more in fighting poverty and less in fighting wars. One fact speaks louder than words that global military spending has soared to 2.7 trillion dollars, growing by almost 10%. This amount is thirteen times more than all development aid, equivalent to the entire Gross Domestic Product of Africa. All, while conflict rages at levels unseen since World War II.
Happy New Year 2026 … let’s make this world a place to live.
Related link:
2026 New Year’s Message – UN Chief | United Nations
Angélus et message pour la Paix du 1er Janvier 2026 | KTO TV
