- Pope’s Plea: Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Ukraine and a ceasefire in Gaza.
- Symbolic Gestures: Unity message conveyed through traditional papal practices.
- Mother’s Day Blessing: Pope acknowledged mothers worldwide during his address.
Pope Leo XIV’s Bold Call for Peace
In his first Sunday noon blessing as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV didn’t hold back. He passionately called for a genuine and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. His message, delivered from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, reached an estimated 100,000 people, echoing a sentiment of unity within the Catholic Church.
A Message of Unity
Leo’s appearance on the loggia marked his return since his election as pope, the first from the United States. In line with papal tradition, he offered a Sunday blessing, but with a twist. Unlike his predecessors, Leo chose the very center of the square, symbolizing his commitment to the heart of the church. He also revived the old Latin Mass by singing the Regina Caeli prayer, a gesture appreciated by traditionalists.
Winning Over Traditionalists
Many traditionalists and conservatives felt alienated by Pope Francis’ reforms. They’re now looking to Leo for gestures that will heal the divisions within the church. His choice to wear the formal red cape of the papacy and the brocaded papal stole during a visit to a Marian sanctuary has sparked cautious optimism. Conservative Italian journalist Aldo Maria Valli urged traditionalists to give Leo a chance, appreciating his return to a traditional style.
Ukraine and Gaza: A World in Conflict
Quoting Pope Francis, Leo lamented the numerous conflicts plaguing the globe, describing it as a “third world war in pieces.” He expressed his deep concern for the suffering of the Ukrainian people and urged for everything possible to achieve genuine, just, and lasting peace. Furthermore, he called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, demanding humanitarian relief for the exhausted civilian population and the release of all hostages.
The situation in both Ukraine and Gaza remains dire. According to the United Nations, millions of Ukrainians are in need of humanitarian assistance due to the ongoing conflict. Similarly, the UN reports a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Mother’s Day Wishes
Adding a personal touch, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged that Sunday was Mother’s Day in many countries. He wished all mothers, including those in heaven, a Happy Mother’s Day. The crowd responded with cheers and music as the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica tolled, creating a moment of joy and celebration.
Pilgrims and Prayers
Thousands of pilgrims flocked to St. Peter’s Square to witness this historic occasion. Among them were more than 50 pilgrims from Houston, Texas, waving American flags. Rev. Dominic Nguyen, leading the Vietnamese American group, expressed his admiration and gratitude to God. He hoped the Pope would be happy to see the flags of all nations, symbolizing the universality of the church.
A Private Mass and Unsealing of the Papal Apartments
Pope Leo XIV also celebrated a private Mass near the tomb of St. Peter and prayed at the tombs of past popes. Vatican Media captured him praying before popes representing both progressive and traditional viewpoints, including Pope Paul VI, Pope Pius XII, and Pope Benedict XVI. Additionally, he attended the official unsealing of the papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace, which had been sealed after Pope Francis’ death.
What’s Next for Pope Leo XIV?
The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary has a busy week ahead, filled with audiences before his formal installation Mass next Sunday. As the world watches, Pope Leo XIV’s actions and decisions will shape the future of the Catholic Church and his impact on global peace efforts.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
About The Author
