On May 11, 2025, Pope Leo XIV stood in St. Peter’s Square to deliver his first Sunday blessing, echoing the longstanding calls of his predecessor for worldwide peace, particularly in conflict zones like Ukraine and Gaza, while emphasizing the Church's need for vocations.
Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Leaders to Pursue Peace in First Sunday Address
Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Leaders to Pursue Peace in First Sunday Address
In a call for unity and peace, Pope Leo XIV's first public address stresses the need for an end to conflict and a return to humanitarian ideals.
In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV captivated thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, calling for an end to war and appealing directly to global leaders. "Never again war," he proclaimed, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the audience, especially given the approaching 80th anniversary of World War II’s conclusion. Drawing on the words of Pope Francis, Leo highlighted ongoing violence as "a third world war in pieces," urging for "authentic, just and lasting peace" in Ukraine. He condemned the abduction of Ukrainian children to Russia, advocating for their return to families, and called for a cease-fire and delivery of humanitarian aid in Gaza, reflecting concerns for the civilian population amidst the ongoing conflict.
This public appearance also coincided with Mother's Day in various countries, to which the new pontiff expressed special greetings to mothers. In addition to articulating his visions for peace, Leo acknowledged the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, stressing the urgent need for new priests and religious figures to invigorate the Church.
Attendees noted Leo's approachable demeanor, with one observer, Candice Dias from California, describing him as "down to earth" and "humble." Since his election, Leo has taken swift action, including celebrating his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel the previous Friday and communicating his intent to adopt a more mission-focused approach, aligning with the aspirations of ordinary people rather than the affluent.
With a scheduled reopening of the Sistine Chapel following a period of closure for the conclave, the pope’s presence has certainly generated renewed interest and participation from the public in Vatican activities.
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.
This public appearance also coincided with Mother's Day in various countries, to which the new pontiff expressed special greetings to mothers. In addition to articulating his visions for peace, Leo acknowledged the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, stressing the urgent need for new priests and religious figures to invigorate the Church.
Attendees noted Leo's approachable demeanor, with one observer, Candice Dias from California, describing him as "down to earth" and "humble." Since his election, Leo has taken swift action, including celebrating his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel the previous Friday and communicating his intent to adopt a more mission-focused approach, aligning with the aspirations of ordinary people rather than the affluent.
With a scheduled reopening of the Sistine Chapel following a period of closure for the conclave, the pope’s presence has certainly generated renewed interest and participation from the public in Vatican activities.
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.
