In a heartfelt appeal, Pope Leo XIV launched his papacy by urging an end to war and advocating for humanitarian relief in crisis regions.
**Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Leaders to Embrace Peace in Inaugural Blessing**
**Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Leaders to Embrace Peace in Inaugural Blessing**
Pope Leo XIV's first address calls for urgent peace initiatives amidst global conflicts, resonating with his predecessor's messages.
In his initial address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV echoed his predecessor’s sentiments regarding global conflict, delivering a passionate plea for peace that captivated an audience of thousands in Vatican City.
Pope Leo XIV took center stage on Sunday, reappearing at the same balcony where he was introduced to the world just days prior, delivering a message that underscored his commitment to peace. With a powerful declaration, the new pontiff proclaimed, “Never again war,” which elicited enthusiastic cheers from the gathered faithful. Reflecting on the nearly 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the pope emphasized the “immense tragedy” of prior conflicts, echoing sentiments from Pope Francis who labeled the current global discord as “a third world war in pieces.”
Pope Leo called for “authentic, just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, highlighting the necessity of freeing all war prisoners and emphasizing the plight of children who have been displaced during the ongoing conflict, particularly those taken to Russia. His remarks were strategically pointed as he implored world leaders to take action for peace.
Furthermore, the pope made an urgent call for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, advocating for the distribution of humanitarian aid to "the exhausted civilian population" there and seeking the return of hostages captured during a recent attack on Israel.
This call for peace mirrored the consistent themes that defined Pope Francis’ addresses, reinforcing the continuity in papal advocacy for resolution to global conflicts.
Amidst these calls, Pope Leo extended special greetings to “all mothers” in observance of Mother’s Day in several regions, connecting his message of peace to the universal bonds of family. He also noted the observance of the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, voicing hopes that more faithful would embrace roles in priesthood and religious orders, an area facing decline in many nations.
Attendee Candice Dias from California shared her impressions of the new pontiff, describing him as "down to earth" and "humble."
Pope Leo, diligently embarking on the responsibilities of his new role, had previously celebrated his inaugural Mass in the Sistine Chapel with fellow cardinals, reaffirming his commitment to the teachings of Francis and a mission-oriented direction for the Church. Subsequently, he engaged with cardinals to strengthen cooperation and support for marginalized communities.
As the Vatican prepares to reopen the Sistine Chapel after the conclave, visitors like Ms. Dias express anticipation for experiencing the artistic and spiritual heritage tied to their new pontiff’s vision.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a Times reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican, and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years.
Pope Leo XIV took center stage on Sunday, reappearing at the same balcony where he was introduced to the world just days prior, delivering a message that underscored his commitment to peace. With a powerful declaration, the new pontiff proclaimed, “Never again war,” which elicited enthusiastic cheers from the gathered faithful. Reflecting on the nearly 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the pope emphasized the “immense tragedy” of prior conflicts, echoing sentiments from Pope Francis who labeled the current global discord as “a third world war in pieces.”
Pope Leo called for “authentic, just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, highlighting the necessity of freeing all war prisoners and emphasizing the plight of children who have been displaced during the ongoing conflict, particularly those taken to Russia. His remarks were strategically pointed as he implored world leaders to take action for peace.
Furthermore, the pope made an urgent call for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, advocating for the distribution of humanitarian aid to "the exhausted civilian population" there and seeking the return of hostages captured during a recent attack on Israel.
This call for peace mirrored the consistent themes that defined Pope Francis’ addresses, reinforcing the continuity in papal advocacy for resolution to global conflicts.
Amidst these calls, Pope Leo extended special greetings to “all mothers” in observance of Mother’s Day in several regions, connecting his message of peace to the universal bonds of family. He also noted the observance of the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, voicing hopes that more faithful would embrace roles in priesthood and religious orders, an area facing decline in many nations.
Attendee Candice Dias from California shared her impressions of the new pontiff, describing him as "down to earth" and "humble."
Pope Leo, diligently embarking on the responsibilities of his new role, had previously celebrated his inaugural Mass in the Sistine Chapel with fellow cardinals, reaffirming his commitment to the teachings of Francis and a mission-oriented direction for the Church. Subsequently, he engaged with cardinals to strengthen cooperation and support for marginalized communities.
As the Vatican prepares to reopen the Sistine Chapel after the conclave, visitors like Ms. Dias express anticipation for experiencing the artistic and spiritual heritage tied to their new pontiff’s vision.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a Times reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican, and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years.
