Soka Gakkai President Minoru Harada on May 9 sent a congratulatory message on behalf of Soka Gakkai members throughout the world to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, on his election the day before as the 267th Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.
In the message, President Harada stated that the appointment signified a “new and hope-filled departure for the global Catholic community and for people everywhere who yearn for peace.”
Referring to the role of religion, he expressed his hope that Pope Leo would provide leadership that “serves to unite humanity in pursuit of harmony, peace and stability, renewal and flourishing.”
President Harada also affirmed the Soka Gakkai’s commitment to dialogue and collaboration toward the realization of these values. President Harada concluded his message by extending his wishes for Pope Leo’s good health and success.
Highlighting a legacy of solidarity and peace.
The month before, on April 22, President Harada had sent a message of condolence on the passing of Pope Francis.
In that message, President Harada recalled his meeting with Pope Francis on May 2024 at the Apostolic Palace, during which he highlighted the pope’s unwavering belief that war signifies defeat and must be eradicated.
“His Holiness exerted himself tirelessly for the peace and happiness of humankind and to protect the global environment that nurtures all life,” President Harada wrote. “His Holiness embodied the values of popular solidarity and peace not only for the global Catholic community, but for people of goodwill everywhere.”
—Adapted from SGI PR News
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