Pope Leo XIV Pleads for Peace in First Sunday Address: “No More War”
In his first Sunday address as leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV made a stirring global appeal for peace, urging world powers to put an end to conflicts and violence. Speaking from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to over 100,000 people gathered in St Peter’s Square, the newly elected pontiff called for a “lasting peace” in Ukraine, an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza, and welcomed a tentative ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
With emotion evident in his voice, Pope Leo declared, “No more war,” echoing the historic appeals of his predecessors while adding a poignant warning. “The immense tragedy of the Second World War ended 80 years ago,” he reminded the crowd. “Now we’re facing the tragedy of a third world war in pieces.” The Pope’s words struck a deep chord, reflecting the suffering seen across multiple global hotspots and the urgent need for diplomacy over destruction.
The 69-year-old Pope, formerly Bishop Robert Prevost from Chicago, carries with him years of missionary experience in Peru and a profound dedication to the Church’s mission of justice and peace. During his remarks, he spoke with great sorrow about the war in Ukraine. “I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” he said. “May all that is possible be done to achieve an authentic, true, and lasting peace as quickly as possible. May the prisoners be freed. May the children return to their families.”
He also turned his attention to the deepening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, where Israel has resumed its offensive and cut off aid after the collapse of a ceasefire. “I am deeply hurt by what is happening in the Gaza Strip,” Leo said. “May a ceasefire immediately come into effect. May humanitarian aid reach the exhausted civilian population, and may all hostages be freed.”
In contrast to the sorrowful tone regarding Ukraine and Gaza, the Pope expressed cautious optimism about developments in South Asia. “I was happy to hear of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan,” he stated. “And I hope that through the coming negotiations we might soon come to a lasting accord.”
The address came just days after his election on May 8 following the death of Pope Francis and a two-day conclave. On Saturday, Leo visited the shrine outside Rome and later prayed at the simple white marble tomb of Francis at Santa Maria Maggiore, a moving gesture that underscored his respect for his predecessor’s legacy. During his first meeting with cardinals, Leo humbly described himself as an “unworthy” choice and vowed to walk the path of peace, justice, and unity.
Leo’s choice of papal name, inspired by a 19th-century pope known for championing social justice, signals a continuation of Francis’ focus on the poor, the marginalized, and the environment. He has already emphasized the importance of missionary work, inclusive dialogue, and the defense of human dignity in the face of new global challenges, including artificial intelligence.
As he recited the Regina Caeli prayer, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the new pontiff was met with cheers and prayers from pilgrims waving flags from Ukraine, Palestine, and across Latin America. Marching bands from around the world, in Rome for the ongoing Catholic Holy Year, filled the square with music, setting a hopeful tone for what the faithful see as a new chapter for the Church.
Pope Leo will be formally inaugurated next Sunday, May 18, in a grand Mass expected to be attended by world leaders and dignitaries. As the first American and second pontiff from the Americas, his leadership arrives at a pivotal moment for the global Catholic Church, now 1.4 billion strong. In a fractured world, Pope Leo’s message was clear and resolute: humanity must choose peace.
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