Pope Leo Meets President Abbas, Calls for Gaza Aid, Reflects on Migrants and Faith

VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Vatican this week to discuss humanitarian assistance for civilians in Gaza and the long-term goal of achieving a peaceful two-state solution in the region.

The meeting, described as sincere and constructive, focused on the urgent need for humanitarian access in Gaza and emphasized continued dialogue between faith and political leaders to promote stability. Both sides expressed hope that renewed international cooperation could help pave the way toward lasting peace.

President Abbas’ visit coincided with the tenth anniversary of the diplomatic agreement between the Holy See and the State of Palestine. During his stay in Rome, he visited the Basilica of St. Mary Major and paid respects at the resting place of the late Pope Francis.

Papal Reflections on Human Dignity and Migration

Earlier in the week, Pope Leo spoke with reporters outside the papal retreat at Castel Gandolfo, urging reflection on the treatment of migrants and the moral responsibility of societies to offer compassion.
He reminded listeners that faith calls for welcoming the stranger, stressing that “every person deserves respect, dignity, and care, no matter their origin.”

The Chicago-born pope — the first from North America — also commented briefly on broader global concerns, including social inequality and peace efforts in the Middle East.

Exploring the Pope’s Residence and the Vatican Gardens

Since 2016, visitors have been able to tour parts of the papal estate in Castel Gandolfo, including its gardens, courtyards, and historic chambers, for a modest entry fee. Even during Pope Leo’s current stay, most areas remain open to the public, with only a few spaces, such as the Vatican Observatory, temporarily closed.

The second floor, once reserved for private papal apartments, now welcomes guests to explore the Consistory Hall, Throne Room, private chapel, and library — each room preserving centuries of Vatican heritage. The Apostolic Palace, known for its marble floors and intricate artworks, remains a highlight of the tour.

Outside, the gardens offer peaceful walking paths, fountains, and views over Lake Albano. In 2023, a new section called Borgo Laudato Si’ was opened to promote education on sustainability and environmental care — a project reflecting the Vatican’s growing commitment to ecology and human development.

Interestingly, Pope Leo XIV has chosen to reside in the nearby Villa Barberini, a smaller yet historically rich residence built in the 17th century.

A Moment of Humanity

During his stay, a lighthearted moment drew attention online after the pope received a surprise pizza delivery from his longtime favorite Italian-American chain — a nostalgic gesture that reminded many of his Midwestern roots. The encounter went viral as a warm reminder that even the leader of the Catholic Church can be touched by simple, human connections.