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White House Defends Prayer for Troops After Pope Condemns War

30 March, 2026.Iran.5 sources

Key Takeaways

White House defends prayers for U.S. troops after pope condemns using prayers to justify war.
Pope Leo XIV says God rejects prayers of those who wage war.
Karoline Leavitt defends prayers as noble and appropriate for troops.

Clearing Theological Clash

The White House defended its calls for prayer after Pope Leo XIV warned God rejects the prayers of those who wage war.

“White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said military leaders and the president urging prayers is “a very noble thing to do,” pushing back after Pope Leo XIV said God rejects prayers of leaders who wage war”

EWTN News

Leavitt said it is a very noble thing to do and that many service members appreciate the prayers and support.

EWTN News

The pope had delivered an unusually forceful condemnation of war during Palm Sunday Mass.

Pope Leo's Stark Condemnation

The pope's remarks came as the Iran war entered its second month.

He did not name specific leaders but quoted Isaiah saying God will not listen to prayers from those whose hands are full of blood.

National Post

The National Post summarized his homily as declaring: This is our God... A God who refuses war.

Pentagon Prayers and Public Perception

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prayed for overwhelming violence against enemies at the Pentagon.

“The White House pushed back Monday after Pope Leo XIV said God rejects the prayers of leaders who wage war, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt defending the administration’s use of prayer in reference to U”