MANILA — Pope Leo XIV has called on Catholics worldwide to join in a year-long journey of prayer following the release of his monthly prayer intentions for 2026 by the Vatican’s Worldwide Prayer Network.
The pope’s intentions reflect both pastoral concerns within the Church and pressing global issues. Beginning in January, Pope Leo encourages prayer centered on Scripture, emphasizing the Word of God as a source of hope and unity. February’s intention turns attention to children with incurable illnesses and their families, highlighting compassion and sustained care.
March’s theme urges world leaders to pursue peace through disarmament and diplomacy, while April focuses on priests facing moments of doubt or crisis in their vocation. In May, the pope calls for collective responsibility in addressing hunger and food waste.
June highlights sports as a bridge for peace and mutual respect among cultures, followed by July’s intention emphasizing the sanctity of human life. In August, Pope Leo draws attention to the challenges of evangelization in urban environments marked by loneliness.
September’s intention addresses the ethical management of water resources, while October seeks to expand mental health ministry throughout the Church. November focuses on resisting selfishness through the proper use of wealth, and December concludes with prayers for families missing a parent, encouraging faith-based support systems.
Through these intentions, Pope Leo XIV seeks to inspire unity, reflection, and concrete action rooted in prayer.