In his first public appearance as the Successor of Peter, Pope Leo XIV greeted the faithful in Rome and across the world with a message of peace, unity, and charity. Speaking from the Central Loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, he invoked the words of the risen Christ, encouraging all people to embrace peace and walk together in faith. His address also highlighted the importance of dialogue and mission, emphasizing the Church’s commitment to a united global community that strives for peace and justice.
A Message of Peace for All
Pope Leo XIV’s message to the world began with a powerful invocation of peace. As he addressed the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square and millions watching from home, he echoed the first greeting of the risen Christ: “Peace be with you!” This greeting, Pope Leo XIV explained, was not just a simple expression but a profound gift from Christ to His followers. It is a peace that is humble, disarming, and ultimately preserving, he said—a peace that comes from God and is available to all people, regardless of their circumstances.
“Dearest brothers and sisters,” Pope Leo XIV continued, “this peace, which we speak of today, is the peace of the Risen Christ. It is the same peace that Christ offered to His disciples and which He continues to offer to all of humanity. It is a peace that has no limits, no conditions, and it is a peace that God wants to give to everyone.”
His words were not just a message for Catholics but a universal call to all people to seek peace, unity, and love. “Let this peace enter your hearts,” he said. “Let it reach your families and all the peoples, wherever they are. Peace be with you.” His message was clear: despite the difficulties and challenges of the world, peace remains the gift that all people can share and experience through faith.
A Church Committed to Unity and Charity
Pope Leo XIV’s message extended beyond peace to the Church’s mission of unity and charity. The newly elected pope expressed his deep commitment to a united Church that stays true to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Gospel. “We are all in the hands of God,” he said, encouraging the faithful not to be afraid, but to walk forward united in faith, hope, and love. “Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward. We are disciples of Christ, and Christ goes before us.”
In his address, Pope Leo XIV also reflected on the legacy of Pope Francis, whose blessing had marked a pivotal moment in the Church’s recent history. “Let us keep in our ears the weak but always brave voice of Pope Francis,” he said. “He blessed Rome and the world on the morning of Easter, and today, I continue that same blessing.” Pope Leo XIV affirmed his commitment to working toward a Church that reflects the love and mercy of Christ, a Church that is united in its mission to serve others.
Building Bridges through Dialogue and Mission
The new pope emphasized the importance of building bridges with others through dialogue and encounter. In an increasingly divided world, he noted, the Church must be a place of openness, love, and reconciliation. He called for the Church to be a missionary Church, one that does not isolate itself but instead reaches out to others with open arms. “We must look together at how to be a missionary Church, building bridges, always open to receiving everyone,” he said. “Like this square, open to all, we must be open to all who need charity, presence, dialogue, and love.”
Pope Leo XIV’s call for dialogue was not limited to the Church but extended to the wider world. He urged the faithful to engage with others, to build relationships that foster peace, understanding, and cooperation. His words were a reminder that the Church’s mission is not only to its own members but to all people, regardless of their background or beliefs.
A Special Greeting to the Church of Rome and the World
In a heartfelt portion of his address, Pope Leo XIV extended a special greeting to the Church of Rome and the global faithful. He acknowledged the importance of his diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, a place that had supported him throughout his journey. “Hello to all, and especially to those of my diocese of Chiclayo in Peru,” he said. “You are a loyal, faithful people who accompany me, and I thank you for your support.”
Returning to his broader message, he spoke of the Church’s mission to be a synodal Church, one that walks together, always seeking peace, charity, and closeness to those who are suffering. “Today is the day of the Supplicatio to Our Lady of Pompei,” he reminded the faithful, referring to the annual prayer event where Catholics around the world seek the intercession of the Virgin Mary.
Pope Leo XIV invited the faithful to join him in prayer, asking for Mary’s help in their mission and for peace in the world. “Our blessed mother Mary always wants to walk with us, be close to us,” he said. “She wants to help us with her intercession and her love. So let us pray together for this mission, for all of the Church, and for peace in the world.”
A Call to Prayer and Unity
The Pope then led the faithful in a prayer, inviting them to join him in the Hail Mary, which echoed throughout St. Peter’s Square and the world. This prayer, Pope Leo XIV explained, was not just a personal act of devotion but a collective plea for peace, unity, and the protection of all people. “Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee,” the crowds recited in unison, their voices rising in a powerful expression of faith and solidarity.
The Future of the Church
As Pope Leo XIV’s first public address came to a close, it was clear that his leadership would be marked by a commitment to peace, unity, and charity. His words reflected a deep desire to guide the Church with compassion and humility, seeking to bring the message of Christ’s love to all people, regardless of their differences. His focus on dialogue, openness, and missionary work suggests that the Church under his leadership will continue to reach out to the world with a message of hope and reconciliation.
For the faithful around the world, Pope Leo XIV’s message was a reminder that, despite the challenges of the world, peace and unity remain possible through faith and love. As the Church continues its mission, it is clear that Pope Leo XIV will lead with a heart full of compassion, always striving to build bridges and spread the light of Christ’s love.
