An interesting link between Pope Leo and Karlshorst

On this day, May 8, 2025 Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the first American pope.

From day one Pope Leo has stressed the importance of peace and social justice in the world.

Today is also the anniversary of theGerman Instrument of Surrender signed at Berlin-Karlshorst on May 8, 1945.

Karlshorst is well worth a visit if and when in Berlin.

Until the unification of Germany it was in East Berlin, the capital city of the German Democratic Republic. Troops of the National People’s Army of the GDR kept a ceremonial guard of honour outside the building.

Inside the seating has been kept exactly as it was on the day of the surrender.

Among those who signed the document were Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel, Chief of the High Command of the German Armed Forces and Marshal Georgy Georgy Zhukov of the Soviet High Command, the Soviet soldier who played a significant role in defeating Germany.

It’s interesting that Pope Leo was elected pope on May 8, an anniversary that brought peace to Europe.