In his first homily, Pope Leo XIV conveys a message of unity and inclusivity, encouraging a diverse church aligned with its evangelizing mission while rejecting forceful conversions.
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Inclusivity and Unity in His Inauguration Homily
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Inclusivity and Unity in His Inauguration Homily
Pope Leo XIV emphasizes love over coercion in the church's mission during his inaugural Mass.
In a heartfelt address during an outdoor Mass held in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV was formally inaugurated as the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. The new pope encapsulated his vision for the future, merging the church's rich traditions with modern-day diversity and inclusiveness.
During the homily, he acknowledged the responsibility bestowed upon him by the cardinals who elected him, stating, “I come to you as a brother,” and expressing a desire for a united church that functions as a “family.” Echoing the teachings of Jesus, he referred to his mission as akin to a “fisher of humanity,” tasked with saving others through love rather than forceful persuasion, which aligns with the priorities set forth by his predecessor Pope Francis.
Pope Leo XIV cautioned against the tendency of a pastor to wield authority over his flock. “A pastor must be close to the flock without ever yielding to the temptation to be an autocrat,” he explained. Emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the coexistence of different perspectives within the church, he referenced the teachings of Saint Augustine, underlining a commitment to unity amid diversity.
“Brothers and sisters,” he urged, “let our first great desire be for a united Church, a sign of unity and communion.” As he embarks on his papacy, Pope Leo XIV is set on fostering a space where inclusivity thrives, setting a transformative course for the global Catholic community.
