Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Peace in First Sunday Address

In his second public appearance since becoming Pope, Leo XIV addressed crowds at St. Peter’s Basilica, urging an end to global conflict. Following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Pope Francis, he specifically called for “a genuine, just and lasting peace” in Ukraine and expressed deep sorrow over the situation in Gaza, demanding a ceasefire.
“Dear brothers and sisters, happy Sunday!” he proclaimed to the tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, who responded with cheers and applause.
Reflecting on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, he addressed world leaders, stating, “In today’s dramatic scenario of a third world war in tatters, as repeatedly stated by Pope Francis, I also address the powerful of the world, repeating the ever-timely appeal: No more war!” He emphasized the need for humanitarian aid in Ukraine and the release of all hostages in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Leo, born Robert Francis Prevost, was chosen as the 267th Pope, with hopes he could unify the Church and address contemporary challenges. Speaking to cardinals, he described himself as a “humble servant of God… and nothing more than this”, and an “unworthy successor” to St. Peter.
Pilgrims from around the world filled St. Peter’s Square, eager to see the new Pope. Alejandrina Espinosa from Peru expressed her emotion, saying, “He stole our hearts, because he awakened Christianity. The pope turned his work towards the forgotten, desolate peoples.” She also voiced her hope that he could “unite all religions to save the world, because humanity is living a humanitarian crisis. We are killing each other.”
Leo emphasized his commitment to the legacy of Pope Francis, “with his example of complete dedication to service and to sober simplicity of life.” He paid tribute by visiting Francis’s tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore basilica.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa described Leo as “a person who immediately inspires a lot of confidence, a mild man who knows how to listen…” and noted, “We are at the beginning of his pontificate, but already the first steps give us great courage and comfort. Even the reaction of the people, so beautiful and enthusiastic, says a lot.”
Looking ahead, Leo has a busy schedule, including meetings with media, diplomats, and Vatican officials. He has also confirmed that current department heads will retain their positions for the time being. As a former missionary in Peru, Leo’s connection to the global Church and his multilingual abilities, including Spanish, are seen as significant assets.