The Church affirms “that the dignity of the person is not lost even after very serious crimes are committed,” Pope Leo XIV said in a video message released on Friday, April 24, to those gathered at DePaul University in the United States to mark the 15th anniversary of the abolition of the death penalty in the State of Illinois.

He highlighted how he joined those present in celebrating this landmark decision made in 2011 and offered his “support to those who advocate for the abolition of the death penalty in the United States of America and around the world.”

“I pray that your efforts will lead to a greater acknowledgement of the dignity of every person, and will inspire others to work for the same just cause,” he emphasized.

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