Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Care for “Ordinary People” in Inaugural Mass

During his inaugural Mass, Pope Leo XIV invoked solidarity with “ordinary people,” urging the Catholic Church to address societal wounds through effective missionary outreach and emphasizing the importance of faith in overcoming modern challenges.

In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV celebrated his inaugural Mass on Friday, firmly positioning himself alongside "ordinary people" while advocating for a missionary approach to address the pressing issues plaguing society. The American-born pontiff, who emphasized his commitment to uplifting marginalized communities, delivered his first homily to a gathering of cardinals at the iconic Sistine Chapel.

Pope Leo, elected as the first pontiff born in the United States, referenced the significant decline in religious faith and the subsequent “appalling violations of human dignity” witnessed globally. Echoing the ethos of his predecessor, Pope Francis, he underscored the importance of outreach and compassion in healing societal wounds, reassured of his role as a missionary leader.

Reflecting on his extensive service in Peru, where he tended to the needs of the poor and vulnerable, the newly elected pope expressed his commitment to sustaining the church's trajectory of compassion and understanding. Cardinal Pablo Virgilio Siongco David remarked on Leo XIV's dedication to helping migrants, signaling continuity with Francis' outreach priorities.

As Pope Leo XIV stepped into his pivotal role, he acknowledged the urgent questions confronting the Church. His first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica called for unity and connection, yet left observers pondering his forthcoming governance style amidst the divided landscape of the church, particularly regarding contentious issues such as women's roles and L.G.B.T.Q. inclusion.

The Chicago-native cardinal who became pope emphasized in his homily that the modern world often dismisses Christianity as irrelevant, asserting that “missionary outreach is desperately needed.” He called on the clergy—himself included—to “make oneself small” to elevate the faith’s message.

Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural appearance marks a significant chapter for the Catholic Church, promising an era that prioritizes engagement with societal realities while facing inherited challenges critical to its future direction. The Pope reiterated the necessity to build bridges across societal divides and navigate complex issues while remaining accessible to the faithful.