Pope Leo demands end to violence against women: ‘It wounds all of humanity’

Detailed summary

The pontiff called for all women to be valued, protected and respected

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Pope Leo XIV has demanded an end to violence against women in Peru, telling locals that “machismo” is widespread and must stop.

The Pope made the remarks during an emotional homecoming to the South American country following lung cancer surgery.

He was in fine form despite the operation, bounding up a steep flight of stairs Thursday morning without any apparent problems.

He joked with the bishops that some “doubting Thomases” had predicted he wouldn't be able to come.

“But God is great and his grace is bigger than all of us and I’m very happy to be here with you,” he said to applause.

In a speech to Peruvians in the plaza, Leo denounced the culture of “machismo” and violence against women that is prevalent in Peru.

He said it went against the Christian teaching that proclaims men and women share equal dignity.

“It pains us to see that violence against women — who could be our grandmothers, mothers, sisters or daughters — continues to be a reality that wounds all of humanity,” he said.

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