Vatican City, June 2, 2025 — Pope Leo XIV has paid a heartfelt tribute to Blessed Iuliu Hossu, recalling his heroic actions during World War II and his steadfast faith during the era of Communist repression in Romania.
The ceremony, held in the Sistine Chapel, was attended by a delegation from the Federation of Jewish Communities of Romania.
According to the Vatican News Agency, the Pope praised Cardinal Hossu for his brave defense of Jewish lives during the Holocaust and for remaining unwavering in his beliefs despite years of imprisonment and harassment under Communist rule.
“Blessed Iuliu Hossu is a shining example of courage in the face of evil, and mercy in the face of hatred,” Pope Leo XIV declared. “He stood firm for justice, protected the innocent, and never abandoned his commitment to truth and faith.”
The Pope also emphasized Hossu’s legacy of interfaith solidarity, especially his efforts to promote mutual respect and understanding between Christians and Jews.
He encouraged all believers to follow his example of hope, forgiveness, and moral clarity.
Blessed Iuliu Hossu, a bishop of the Romanian Greek Catholic Church, was beatified in 2019 for his unwavering Christian witness.
He refused to renounce his faith even after years of detention under Romania’s atheist Communist regime.
The presence of Jewish community leaders at the Vatican ceremony marked a powerful symbol of shared memory and enduring gratitude.
Pope Leo XIV concluded the tribute by calling on people of all faiths to embrace the values Hossu lived and died for — courage, compassion, and reconciliation.
