Under a clear Roman sky and the echoes of jubilant cheers, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for his first Sunday blessing—a moment both historic and deeply charged. As the newly elected pontiff raised his voice above the crowd of nearly 100,000 faithful, his message was unequivocal: the world must turn away from war.
It was only days ago that smoke curled above the Sistine Chapel, signalling his surprise election as the first American-born pope. The son of Chicago, spiritually shaped in Peru, and seasoned in Vatican governance, Leo stepped onto the iconic balcony cloaked not only in papal vestments but also in anticipation and purpose.
His speech, delivered fluently in Italian, drew on the legacy of Pope Francis and echoed the urgency of the times. “In this fragmented global conflict—what has been called a third world war in pieces—I join my voice with those who cry out: never again war!” he declared. His plea came with a call for a durable and just peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. He urged the international community to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians caught in the conflict and called for the release of hostages.
Leo also referenced recent diplomatic progress between India and Pakistan, welcoming the ceasefire and expressing hope for a lasting peace agreement to emerge from upcoming talks.
The pope’s inaugural appearance was steeped in symbolism and surprise. In a break from protocol, he sang the “Regina Caeli” — a traditional Marian Easter prayer — moving many in the crowd. The square, energized by a global assembly of marching bands performing everything from national anthems to the iconic “YMCA,” pulsed with color and sound as banners from the U.S., Brazil, Spain, and Mexico waved high above the sea of pilgrims.
“Let us continue the mission of Pope Francis,” Leo urged, “by embracing the youth, serving one another, and remaining open to dialogue with the world.” His vision draws heavily on the teachings of Pope Leo XIII, who famously addressed labour rights and social justice during the First Industrial Revolution. Leo XIV’s choice of name signals continuity with those values.
The new pope has indicated a forward-looking approach: socially progressive on issues like migration and poverty, yet doctrinally balanced on traditional moral matters. His background as the head of the Augustinian order, known for community service and pastoral outreach, shapes much of his ecclesial worldview.
Over the weekend, Pope Leo made spiritual pilgrimages to two key sites: the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore to honour his predecessor, and the Madonna del Buon Consiglio shrine in Genazzano, where he prayed in the spirit of guidance and humility.
As Rome prepares for his installation Mass on May 18, expectations are high. But one message from this weekend is already clear: Pope Leo XIV enters the papacy not just as a spiritual leader, but as a global voice for peace, justice, and compassion.
Written By Queen Diana
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