**Pope Leo XIV’s First Mass: A Call for Missionary Outreach to Ordinary People**

**In his first homily as pope, Leo XIV emphasizes the need for a missionary church that focuses on the needs of the ordinary people while calling for healing in society.**

 

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church in the Sistine Chapel, urging the church to prioritize "missionary outreach" aimed at healing societal wounds. Using strong theological references, the Chicago-born pontiff positioned himself as an ally for ordinary individuals, setting a tone for an inclusive and compassionate papacy.

In his homily on May 9, 2025, Leo XIV reminded the gathering of cardinals of their duty to advocate for those marginalized in society, asserting that a decline in religious faith has contributed to violations of human dignity. His remarks echoed those of his predecessor, Pope Francis, whose approach aimed at making the church more accessible and relevant through the inclusion of laypeople in discussions of church teachings and policies.

Cardinals attending the inaugural Mass acknowledged their historic choice, as Leo XIV becomes the first American pontiff. He previously served in Peru and held key positions within the Vatican, establishing a reputation as a missionary leader dedicated to the impoverished communities he assisted.

The new pope's emphasis on "building bridges" during his initial public address highlighted his mission to cultivate a church open to all, particularly in regions where faith is often ridiculed. His words spoke of a church striving to address critical issues such as poverty, migration, and the crises of family structures prevalent in today's society.

As he maps out his vision for the future of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV faces pivotal decisions that will shape not only his papacy but also influence the direction of the church amidst ongoing debates surrounding inclusivity, clergy celibacy, and the roles of women and LGBTQ individuals within the faith community.

Leo's intentions to mitigate divisions and foster unity within the church are promising signs as he embarks on his tenure. His new mission stands as a commitment to revitalizing a contemporary relevance of the church's teachings, reflecting his own journey from ordinary Chicagoan to shepherd of 1.4 billion Catholics.