In his first public Sunday address, newly elected Pope Leo XIV issued a powerful appeal for peace, urging world leaders to end wars and prioritize humanitarian efforts.
Speaking from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to thousands gathered in Vatican City, the 69-year-old pontiff called for “no more war,” referencing the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, and welcomed the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
“I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” Pope Leo said. “May whatever is possible be done to reach an authentic, true and lasting peace as quickly as possible. May all the prisoners be freed. May children return to their families.”
He continued, expressing anguish over the escalating violence in Gaza:
“I am deeply hurt by what is happening in the Gaza Strip. May a ceasefire immediately come into effect. May humanitarian aid be allowed into the civilian population and may all hostages be freed.”
Reflecting on the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, he said,
“I was happy to hear… there was a ceasefire… I hope that through the coming negotiations we might soon come to a lasting accord.”
Pope Leo’s words echoed the peace-centered teachings of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away recently, prompting a two-day conclave that led to Leo’s election last Thursday.
“I would also like to address the powerful people of the world, repeating the always current call: ‘No more war.’ The immense tragedy of the Second World War ended 80 years ago… now we’re facing the tragedy of a third world war in pieces.”
During his first Mass as pope in the Sistine Chapel on Friday, and again in a meeting with cardinals on Saturday, Pope Leo described himself as an “unworthy” choice and pledged to carry forward the “precious legacy” of Francis. He emphasized the importance of unity, missionary work, and compassion for society’s most vulnerable.
He chose the name Leo after a 19th-century pope known for promoting social justice. He also spoke about the modern role of the Church in safeguarding human dignity in the face of technological advances such as artificial intelligence.
On Saturday, Pope Leo visited a shrine outside Rome before praying at Pope Francis’ tomb at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. His formal inauguration will take place in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, 18 May, where he will deliver a homily before heads of state and international dignitaries.
Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, he is the first American pope and the 267th pontiff in Church history. A former missionary in Peru, he also holds Peruvian nationality. While American by birth, the Vatican considers him the second pope from the Americas after Pope Francis of Argentina.
Known for his moderate views, Pope Leo is expected to continue Francis’ focus on social issues such as care for migrants, the environment, and the poor.
“I want to walk together with you as a united Church, searching all together for peace and justice,” he told the crowd during Sunday’s address.
He is scheduled to meet with the media on Monday ahead of his official inauguration.
