In his first Sunday noon blessing as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV called for peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the global conflicts impacting the world. Addressing an estimated 100,000 people in St. Peter’s Square, he echoed his unwavering stance against war, calling for “never again war.”
This blessing marked the first time Leo returned to the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica since his election as pope, following his remarkable rise as the first U.S.-born pope. His message of peace continued the tradition of papal Sunday blessings, but with a distinct twist, as Leo appeared at the center of the square rather than from the traditional studio window of the Apostolic Palace.
Pope Leo XIV Embraces Traditional Practices, Symbolizes Conservative Alignment in Papal Leadership
Pope Leo XIV made a notable departure from his predecessors by incorporating more traditional elements into his papal duties. Instead of merely reciting prayers, he sang the Regina Caeli, a prayer typically said during the Easter season. This harkened back to older practices, contrasting with Pope Francis’ more relaxed liturgical style.
Traditionalist Catholics, who had felt alienated by some of Pope Francis’ reforms, expressed cautious optimism over these gestures, interpreting them as signals of Leo’s priorities. These included his appearance in a formal red cape during his initial speech and his choice to wear a brocaded papal stole during a visit to a Marian sanctuary south of Rome.
Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Ceasefires and Restores Tradition in First Sunday Address as PontiffDuring his first Sunday blessing, Pope Leo wore a simple white cassock, reverting to a more traditional papal look after wearing an ornate cross containing relics from his Augustinian order on Thursday.
The presence of two prominent conservative political figures, France’s Marine Le Pen and Italy’s Matteo Salvini, at the blessing further underscored the importance of Pope Leo’s message to both religious and political communities. These figures, known for their Catholic faith, symbolized the potential alignment between the pope’s leadership and conservative values.
Pope Leo Calls for Global Peace, Humanitarian Aid, and Vocational Renewal in First Mass
In his address, Pope Leo echoed Pope Francis’ condemnation of the numerous global conflicts, which he described as a “third world war in pieces.” He expressed his deep concern for the suffering of the Ukrainian people and called for an immediate and lasting peace. The pope also urged the release of prisoners of war and the return of displaced Ukrainian children.
He extended this call for peace to Gaza, urging a ceasefire and the provision of humanitarian aid to civilians. Additionally, he acknowledged Mother’s Day, offering heartfelt wishes to mothers around the world, including those who have passed away, marking a moment of connection with his global audience.
Later on Sunday, Pope Leo celebrated a private Mass in the grottoes beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, praying before the tombs of past popes. This Mass, which also marked the Church’s celebration of religious vocations, was attended by members of his Augustinian order.
Leo reflected on the issue of declining vocations, stressing the importance of priests serving as role models to inspire young people. Additionally, the pope participated in the unsealing of the papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace, though it remains unclear whether he will take up residence there or simply use the space for formal events. As Leo embarks on his papacy, his first days set the tone for his leadership and the future direction of the Catholic Church.
