Pope Leo XIV, in a heartfelt address, urges global peace and compassion while paying homage to his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Unity and Peace in His First Public Address
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Unity and Peace in His First Public Address
In his inaugural speech from St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV emphasizes compassion and the pursuit of justice.
May 8, 2025, 4:07 p.m. ET — In a significant moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural speech today from the iconic balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. This highly anticipated address came during his first public appearance as the newly elected leader of the Church. The Pope communicated his heartfelt desire for peace and justice for all humanity.
“Peace be with you!” were the opening words of Pope Leo XIV, echoing the sentiments of the risen Christ, which he hopes will reach every heart and family around the globe. He emphasized the importance of divine peace that transcends conditions, urging everyone to stand united in faith and love. "God loves us, all of us, evil will not prevail," he assured his listeners.
In a moment of gratitude, Pope Leo XIV remembered his predecessor, Pope Francis, stating, "Let us keep in our ears the weak but always brave voice of Pope Francis, who blessed Rome." He pledged to continue that legacy of peace and prayerful guidance while rallying the faithful to work collaboratively for a just world.
His remarks also highlighted the urgency for dialogue and understanding among people, as he shared, “Humanity needs [Christ] like a bridge to reach God and His love.” The Pope's address concluded with a call for unity among all believers, inspired by the words of Saint Augustine: “With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop.”
With this speech, Pope Leo XIV aims to set a compassionate tone for his papacy, urging the Church to be a source of hope and reconciliation in a world longing for peace.
“Peace be with you!” were the opening words of Pope Leo XIV, echoing the sentiments of the risen Christ, which he hopes will reach every heart and family around the globe. He emphasized the importance of divine peace that transcends conditions, urging everyone to stand united in faith and love. "God loves us, all of us, evil will not prevail," he assured his listeners.
In a moment of gratitude, Pope Leo XIV remembered his predecessor, Pope Francis, stating, "Let us keep in our ears the weak but always brave voice of Pope Francis, who blessed Rome." He pledged to continue that legacy of peace and prayerful guidance while rallying the faithful to work collaboratively for a just world.
His remarks also highlighted the urgency for dialogue and understanding among people, as he shared, “Humanity needs [Christ] like a bridge to reach God and His love.” The Pope's address concluded with a call for unity among all believers, inspired by the words of Saint Augustine: “With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop.”
With this speech, Pope Leo XIV aims to set a compassionate tone for his papacy, urging the Church to be a source of hope and reconciliation in a world longing for peace.
