In his first Sunday message as leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV issued a heartfelt appeal to global powers, urging an end to conflict and the pursuit of lasting peace. Speaking from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, the 69-year-old pontiff called on world leaders to embrace diplomacy and reject war, referencing ongoing crises in Ukraine, Gaza, and South Asia.
“Enough of war,” Pope Leo pleaded, echoing a timeless call for peace. Reflecting on the world’s current turmoil, he said, “The immense tragedy of World War II ended 80 years ago. Today, we are witnessing what could become a third world war in fragments.”
The Pope expressed sorrow over the renewed fighting in Gaza, describing himself as “deeply hurt” by the humanitarian crisis unfolding there. He called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access to civilians.
On the conflict in Ukraine, he conveyed solidarity with the Ukrainian people and called for a “genuine, lasting peace” and the reunification of families separated by war. “Let all prisoners be freed,” he said, adding that the suffering of children especially weighed on him.
Turning to South Asia, Pope Leo welcomed the tentative ceasefire agreement reached between India and Pakistan following recent cross-border violence. He expressed hope that ongoing talks would lead to a permanent resolution.
The Pope also led the traditional Regina Caeli prayer in honor of the Virgin Mary as thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, was elected on Thursday after a two-day conclave following the death of Pope Francis. A former missionary in Peru, he holds dual American and Peruvian citizenship and becomes the first American and the second pontiff from the Americas to assume the papacy.
On Saturday, he visited a shrine near Rome and paid respects at the tomb of his predecessor in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. He held his first Mass as Pope in the Sistine Chapel and later addressed the College of Cardinals, humbly calling himself an “unworthy” choice and vowing to continue Pope Francis’ legacy.
During that address, Pope Leo emphasized compassion for the marginalized and stressed the Church’s role in protecting human dignity, especially in light of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. He chose the name Leo in tribute to a 19th-century pope known for championing social justice.
The new pope is viewed as a moderate figure who seeks to foster continuity and unity in the Church’s global community of 1.4 billion members. He shares his predecessor’s commitment to supporting migrants, the poor, and environmental stewardship.
His formal inauguration is scheduled for May 18 in St Peter’s Square and will be attended by numerous world leaders and dignitaries. Ahead of the ceremony, Pope Leo is set to meet with members of the media on Monday.
In his closing remarks on Sunday, Pope Leo stated, “I wish to walk with you—as one Church united in our pursuit of peace and justice.”
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