Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Sunday as leader of the Catholic Church on May 11, in front of an estimated 100,000 pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
“In today’s dramatic context of a third world war fought piecemeal … I too appeal to the powerful of the world by repeating these ever-relevant words: never again war!”
The pontiff spoke of the end of World War II, which ended 80 years ago on Thursday, May 8. Pope Leo then turned to the wars of today. “I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” he said, urging that “every effort be made to reach a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible.”
Speaking on the Gaza Strip conflict, “I am deeply pained by what is happening,” he said. “Let the fighting cease immediately, let humanitarian aid be provided to the exhausted civilian population, and may all hostages be released.”
Pope Leo was hopeful as he praised the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. “I hope that, through the upcoming negotiations, a lasting agreement may soon be reached,” he said.
Sunday’s appearance was the first time he had returned to the loggia since his inaugural appearance as Pope Leo XIV on Thursday.
The Associated Press reports the new pope did make a change from the typical Sunday blessing. While the blessing was still at noon, Leo went to the center of the square. His predecessor delivered the greeting from the studio window of the Apostolic Palace.
However, this was reportedly more about logistics since he didn’t have access to the papal apartments in the palace until later Sunday, when they were unsealed for the first time since Pope Francis’ death.
Pope Leo XIV made his first formal address to the College of Cardinals on Saturday, May 10. His message focused on the need to pay close attention to the digital revolution.
Reflecting on the words of his previous namesake, Leo XIII, who served as pope from 1878 to 1903 and oversaw the first industrial revolution, Leo XIV said, “Today, the Church offers to all her treasure of social teaching in response to another industrial revolution and the developments of artificial intelligence.”
The pope paid tribute to his direct predecessor, remembering Pope Francis’ simplicity and his radical dedication to service. “Let us treasure this precious legacy and resume our journey,” he said, “animated by the same hope that comes from faith.”
