The newly elected Pope Leo XIV has called for an end to global conflict, urging a ceasefire in Gaza and peace in Ukraine.
The Pope addressed thousands at Saint Peter’s Square during his first Sunday blessing as leader of the Catholic Church.
“No more war!” he declared from the loggia of Saint Peter’s Basilica, echoing sentiments previously voiced by Pope Francis.
He recalled the end of World War II 80 years ago and warned that the world faces a “third world war in pieces.”
Leo prayed for the release of hostages in Gaza and immediate humanitarian aid for affected populations.
He also urged global leaders to embrace peace and justice in resolving international conflicts.
Pope Leo, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, is the first American to lead the Catholic Church.
He previously served as a missionary in Peru, where he spent nearly two decades working with the poor.
On Sunday, he also honored mothers worldwide, marking Mother’s Day with a heartfelt greeting “including those in heaven.”
Bands and pilgrims filled the square, celebrating the Jubilee weekend and the Pope’s inaugural blessing.
Pope Leo’s gentle demeanor and quiet authority won praise from cardinals and the crowd alike.
The 69-year-old pontiff pledged to uphold the legacy of Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at age 88.
He described himself as a “humble servant of God” and an “unworthy successor” to Saint Peter.
On Saturday, Leo visited Pope Francis’s tomb at Santa Maria Maggiore, a basilica cherished by his predecessor.
He also made a surprise visit to an Augustinian shrine near Rome before returning to Vatican duties.
Cardinals expect Leo to follow Francis’s path of compassion, simplicity, and advocacy for the marginalized.
He belongs to the Augustinian order and emphasized the Church’s mission to reach distant and underserved communities.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York described Leo as “a man of deep faith, rooted in prayer and capable of listening.”
Leo’s pontificate officially begins with a Mass at Saint Peter’s Basilica on May 18.
This week, he meets the global press, Vatican diplomats, and members of the Roman Curia.
On May 21, he will deliver his first general audience to the public, continuing a papal tradition.
He has retained the heads of all Vatican departments for now, pending prayerful reflection and future decisions.
Pope Leo’s early acts highlight his focus on unity, service, and peace in a fractured world.
He continues preparations to visit the four papal basilicas, beginning with Santa Maria Maggiore on May 25.
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