On May 11, 2025, Pope Leo XIV stood on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, addressing an estimated 100,000 people in his first Sunday noon blessing as the newly elected pontiff. In a powerful message, he called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a lasting peace in Ukraine, and an end to global conflicts, echoing the heartfelt pleas of his predecessor, Pope Francis. His words, delivered with conviction, resonated with a world weary of war and division.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Leo, the first American pope, elected on May 8 following Pope Francis’ death on April 21, wasted no time in confronting the world’s most pressing crises. “No more war,” he declared, denouncing the “dramatic scenario of a third world war being fought piecemeal.” His words carried the weight of Francis’ legacy, who often described global conflicts as a fragmented world war. Leo’s message was clear: the suffering must end.
In Gaza, where Israel’s blockade has left civilians starving and more than 52,000 Palestinians dead, Leo expressed profound sadness. “Let the fighting cease immediately,” he urged, demanding humanitarian aid for the “exhausted civilian population” and the release of all hostages held by Hamas. His call came as a reminder of Francis’ near-daily outreach to Gaza’s Christians during the conflict, a tradition Leo seems poised to continue.
Turning to Ukraine, Leo spoke of carrying “the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people” in his heart. He called for negotiations to achieve a “genuine, just, and lasting peace,” aligning his plea with recent proposals by Russian President Vladimir Putin for direct talks. Leo also urged the release of war prisoners and the return of Ukrainian children to their families, highlighting the human toll of the conflict.
A Global Vision for Peace
Leo’s message extended beyond Gaza and Ukraine. He welcomed a recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, expressing hope for a lasting agreement. “But there are so many other conflicts in the world,” he lamented, underscoring the need for global powers to heed his call: “Never again war.” His words were a direct appeal to world leaders, urging them to prioritize diplomacy over destruction.
The new pope’s address was not just a call to action but a moment of unity for a polarized Catholic Church. Delivered after singing the Regina Caeli prayer—a departure from the usual recitation—Leo’s blessing blended tradition with a fresh approach. His choice to speak from the central balcony, rather than the Apostolic Palace window used by past popes, symbolized his desire to connect directly with the faithful.
A New Pope, A Familiar Mission
At 69, the Chicago-born missionary, who spent years serving in Peru, brings a unique perspective to the papacy. His election as the 267th pope marks a historic moment for the United States and the global Church. Yet, Leo’s message of peace and compassion feels deeply rooted in Francis’ teachings. On Saturday, he prayed at Francis’ tomb in St. Mary Major Basilica, a gesture of respect for the pope who shaped his vision.
In St. Peter’s Square, the crowd roared with approval, joined by marching bands from Italy, Mexico, and Latin America, gathered for the Catholic Holy Year. Pilgrims from Houston, Texas, waved American flags, while Italian authorities noted the massive turnout. Angela Gentile from Bari, who arrived hours early, expressed trust in Leo’s leadership, saying, “What’s good for the Holy Spirit works for me.”
A Nod to Mothers and Tradition
Leo also took a moment to honor mothers, noting that May 11 was Mother’s Day in many countries. “Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers, including those in heaven,” he said, before closing with a prayer to Mary, Queen of Peace, for a “miracle of peace.” His words struck a personal chord, reminding the crowd of the universal bonds that unite humanity.
Traditionalists in the Church, wary after Francis’ reforms, have noted Leo’s nods to tradition—singing the Regina Caeli, wearing the formal red cape on his first appearance, and using a brocaded stole during a visit to a Marian sanctuary. Yet, on Sunday, he wore a simple white cassock and his silver pectoral cross, signaling a balance between old and new.
A Busy Road Ahead
As Leo begins his papacy, he faces a world in turmoil and a Church seeking unity. On Sunday, he celebrated a private Mass near St. Peter’s tomb and attended the unsealing of the papal apartments, though it’s unclear if he’ll reside there or follow Francis’ example of living in the Domus Santa Marta hotel. With a week of audiences and his formal installation Mass approaching, Leo’s leadership will be closely watched.
Pope Leo XIV’s first Sunday blessing was more than a ritual—it was a clarion call for peace, rooted in faith and humanity. As he steps into his role, the world waits to see how his voice will shape the future.
