Pope Leo celebrates first Good Friday with service, call to Israeli president

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Good Friday with a Celebration of the Passion of the Lord service at Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. 

Pope Leo also took a moment to call Israeli President Isaac Herzog to discuss peace and the need to reopen all channels of communication. 

Vatican News reported the conversation between the two leaders took place Friday morning. The Holy See Press Office said the call pressed on the need to “reopen channels of diplomatic dialogue” and put an end to the ongoing conflict. 

Pope Leo XIV exchanges gifts with President of Israel, Isaac Herzog during an audience at the Apostolic Palaceon September 04, 2025 in Vatican City, Vatican. (Photo by Simone Risoluti – Vatican Media via Vatican Pool Getty Images)

What they’re saying:

“Attention was focused on the importance of protecting the civilian population and promoting respect for international and humanitarian law.”