In a heartfelt message delivered from St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV urged humanity to embrace love and solidarity, reflecting on the teachings of Christ and the significance of the Church's mission.
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Unity and Peace in Inaugural Speech
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Unity and Peace in Inaugural Speech
In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV emphasizes the need for compassion and unity among all people, reaffirming the Church’s mission for peace.
May 8, 2025, 4:07 p.m. ET
Pope Leo XIV made a historic debut on Thursday, addressing the faithful from the iconic balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. His speech, delivered in both Italian and Spanish, resonated deeply with themes of peace and compassion, as he called upon the world to step back from conflict and remember those enduring suffering.
"Peace be with you!" began Pope Leo XIV, echoing the first message of the risen Christ. He continued, expressing his desire for the greeting of peace to permeate the hearts of all people globally, encouraging unity across nations and communities.
Instilling hope, he proclaimed that God’s love is limitless and unconditional, urging listeners to hold onto the courageous voice of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who had wished for a blessing over both Rome and the wider world. "We are all in the hands of God," emphasized the Pope. "Together, without fear, we will strive for peace and justice."
The newly inaugurated Pope expressed gratitude towards Pope Francis and the Cardinals of the Church, who chose him as the successor of Peter. He called for collective efforts to enrich humanity's journey in faith, urging all to serve as missionaries of the Gospel and advocates for peace.
Identifying as a son of Saint Augustine, he quoted, "With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop," highlighting the importance of unity and collaborative efforts towards the divine homeland that God has prepared for all believers.
Pope Leo XIV made a historic debut on Thursday, addressing the faithful from the iconic balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. His speech, delivered in both Italian and Spanish, resonated deeply with themes of peace and compassion, as he called upon the world to step back from conflict and remember those enduring suffering.
"Peace be with you!" began Pope Leo XIV, echoing the first message of the risen Christ. He continued, expressing his desire for the greeting of peace to permeate the hearts of all people globally, encouraging unity across nations and communities.
Instilling hope, he proclaimed that God’s love is limitless and unconditional, urging listeners to hold onto the courageous voice of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who had wished for a blessing over both Rome and the wider world. "We are all in the hands of God," emphasized the Pope. "Together, without fear, we will strive for peace and justice."
The newly inaugurated Pope expressed gratitude towards Pope Francis and the Cardinals of the Church, who chose him as the successor of Peter. He called for collective efforts to enrich humanity's journey in faith, urging all to serve as missionaries of the Gospel and advocates for peace.
Identifying as a son of Saint Augustine, he quoted, "With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop," highlighting the importance of unity and collaborative efforts towards the divine homeland that God has prepared for all believers.
