Pope Leo XIV, in his first Sunday noon blessing as pontiff, called for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, along with the release of hostages and delivery of humanitarian aid. Leo shouted from the loggia of St Peter’s Basilica, “Never again war!” The pontiff also quoted Pope Francis in denouncing the numerous conflicts currently ravaging the globe, referring to it as a “third world war in pieces”. The first American pope, Leo, noted that Sunday also marked Mother’s Day in many countries and wished all mothers, “including those in heaven”, a Happy Mother’s Day.
The crowd gathered in St Peter’s Square, filled with marching bands in town for a special Jubilee weekend, erupted in cheers and music as the bells of St Peter’s Basilica tolled. It was Leo’s first time returning to the loggia since his initial appearance on Thursday night following his election as pope, the first from the United States. He had delivered a message of peace then as well.
Earlier on Sunday, Leo celebrated a private Mass near the tomb of St Peter with the head of his Augustinian order, the Reverend Alejandro Moral Anton. The Mass took place in the grottoes underneath St Peter’s, the traditional burial place of St Peter. This area, usually open to the public, also houses the tombs of past popes, including Pope Benedict XVI.
Leo had prayed before the tomb of Pope Francis on Saturday, located at the St Mary Major Basilica across town. The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary was elected as the 267th pope on Thursday following the death of Francis on April 21.
St Peter’s Square was packed with pilgrims, well-wishers, and the curious, many waving flags from their homelands. Leo gave shoutouts to many special groups.
The atmosphere in St Peter’s Square was electric as Leo delivered his blessing, with the crowd reacting enthusiastically to his words. The pontiff’s call for peace resonated with the audience, who were eager to see an end to the conflicts plaguing various parts of the world.
In his address, Leo emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages in conflict zones, highlighting the urgent need for compassion and empathy in dealing with global crises. His words struck a chord with many in the crowd, who applauded his commitment to promoting peace and reconciliation.
As Leo concluded his blessing, the bells of St Peter’s Basilica rang out once more, signaling the end of the ceremony. The pontiff’s message of peace and unity lingered in the air, leaving a lasting impact on those gathered in the square. The hope for a better future, free from the horrors of war, echoed in the hearts of all who listened to Leo’s words on that memorable Sunday afternoon.