Pope Leo XIV addresses leaders from a myriad of denominations near the Basilica of Saint Neophytos by Lake Iznik, on Friday. The pontiff called on worshippers to use their faith as a vehicle for unity. Ozan Kose/AFP/Getty Images Iznik, Turkey —

Pope Leo XIV condemned the use of religion for justifying “war,” “violence” or “fanaticism” on Friday – instead urging Catholics to mobilize their faith and unify others “regardless of ethnicity, nationality, religion or personal perspectives.”

The pontiff called on worshippers to enable “dialogue and cooperation” between different communities and see the humanity in others, as he commemorated a significant church anniversary in Turkey.

“The whole of humanity afflicted by violence and conflict is crying out for reconciliation,” said Leo

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