New Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Outreach for "Ordinary People" in First Mass

During a momentous first Mass, Pope Leo XIV declared his dedication to ordinary people, calling for missionary outreach as a pathway to heal societal wounds. While some cardinals recognize his American background, they emphasize his commitment to service over nationality.

Pope Leo XIV presided over his inaugural Mass on May 9, 2025, where he positioned himself firmly with "ordinary people" and reiterated the call for a missionary outreach to tackle societal wounds. His selection as the first American-born pope marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church, though the cardinals who chose him stressed his substantial experience and dedication to the service of the poor in Peru over his nationality.

In his homily, Leo noted the alarming erosion of faith, which he believes has led to "appalling violations of human dignity" around the globe. He drew upon the legacies of his predecessor, Pope Francis, and stated a need to respond to the growing divides in society. “We need to build bridges with dialogue and encounter,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of a unifying church in a turbulent world.

His journey to the papacy began in Chicago, slipping into a life of service that took him to Peru, where he became a bishop and served a span of decades before his elevation to cardinal. While his American roots have garnered attention, various cardinals have voiced that his humanitarian efforts were the decisive factors in his election.

Anticipating heated discussions on pressing issues facing the Church, Pope Leo XIV is expected to navigate complexities such as the rising right-wing sentiment within U.S. Catholicism and social justice matters. His upcoming news conference with journalists on May 12 will provide an opportunity for him to lay down his priorities.

Pope Leo has emphasized a broad commitment to dialogue with various nations, declaring himself a “bridge builder,” echoing the historical meaning of ‘pontiff.’ His commitment to social outreach resonates strongly with the challenges of migration, especially evident during his tenure as bishop in Peru, where he was noted for his compassionate role in assisting Venezuelan migrants.

The implications of having an American leader in the Vatican become further nuanced in the context of shifting global dynamics, especially amid contrasting perspectives with his contemporaries like President Trump. As observers watch to see how the pope’s vision unfolds, the unity and compassion he embodies reflect a progressive approach towards Catholicism’s evolution in modern society.