In his first Sunday noon Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Peace in First Sunday Address: “Never Again War.” In the address as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful plea for global peace, calling for a just resolution to the war in Ukraine, an immediate Gaza ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and welcoming the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Speaking from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the newly elected first American pope, born Robert Francis Prevost, stirred the crowd with an emotional appeal: “Never again war!”
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Peace in First Sunday Address: “Never Again War”
A Powerful Papal Debut
Pope Leo XIV’s Sunday appearance marked a continuation of the message of peace that defined his first words upon being elected on May 8. His address drew tens of thousands of faithful and onlookers to St. Peter’s Square, already vibrant with marching bands and pilgrims arriving for the Jubilee weekend. The mood turned jubilant as bells rang and the pope gave his heartfelt blessing.
“Peace be with you. This was the first greeting of the risen Christ,” Pope Leo declared. “I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people. May all prisoners be freed. May children return to their families.”
Calls for Peace in Ukraine and Gaza
The pope’s plea for peace in Ukraine comes amid continuing hostilities and clashing peace proposals from Kyiv and Moscow. While his predecessor, Pope Francis, faced criticism for ambiguity on the conflict, Pope Leo has long taken a firmer stance.
As a missionary bishop in Peru, he condemned Russia’s 2022 invasion as “imperialist” and a violation of international law.
In addressing the Gaza conflict, Pope Leo XIV said he was “profoundly saddened” by the situation. “May a ceasefire immediately come into effect. May humanitarian aid be allowed in, and may all hostages be freed,” he said, referencing the recent escalation after the collapse of a temporary truce.
Support for India-Pakistan Ceasefire
Pope Leo also commended the India-Pakistan ceasefire, announced Saturday after several days of military strikes and drone attacks following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The operation, named Operation Sindoor, led to intense cross-border exchanges. The ceasefire though fragile was welcomed by Pope Leo as a hopeful step.
“I was happy to hear that there was a ceasefire between India and Pakistan,” he said. “I hope that through negotiations, a lasting accord may soon be reached.”
“Third World War in Pieces”
Marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Pope Leo echoed Pope Francis’s grim warning about the state of the modern world: “We are living through a third world war in pieces.” The pontiff urged world leaders and major powers to choose diplomacy over destruction.
“I repeat the always current call: ‘No more war!’” he declared, as the crowd erupted in support. His words resonated as a reminder of the Church’s moral voice amid global conflict.
Remembering Mothers, Honoring the Past
In a touching aside, Pope Leo also acknowledged that Sunday marked Mother’s Day in many countries. “To all mothers—including those in heaven—Happy Mother’s Day,” he said. His warmth added a personal tone to an otherwise solemn address.
Earlier that day, Pope Leo celebrated a private Mass at the tomb of St. Peter alongside Rev. Alejandro Moral Anton, head of the Augustinian order to which the pope belongs. On Saturday, he had also visited the tomb of Pope Francis at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, paying tribute to his predecessor.
A New Era Begins
The 69-year-old pontiff from Chicago, who also holds Peruvian citizenship, is the 267th pope of the Catholic Church and leads a global community of 1.4 billion faithful. His formal inauguration will take place on May 18 at St. Peter’s Square, in a Mass attended by dignitaries and heads of state.
In a Saturday meeting with cardinals, Pope Leo described himself as an “unworthy choice” but pledged to continue Pope Francis’s legacy, especially in advocating for the poor, migrants, the environment, and human dignity amid rising technological challenges, such as artificial intelligence.
Continuity with a Clearer Voice
Though Pope Leo emphasized continuity, many see his leadership as offering greater clarity, especially on Ukraine. His earlier condemnation of Russia’s aggression contrasts with Pope Francis’s more cautious diplomacy, which sometimes frustrated Ukrainian leaders and allies.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the new pope’s appointment, praising the Holy See’s stance on international law and the protection of civilian lives. “Ukraine deeply values the Holy See’s consistent position,” he said in a statement.
Final Words: A Pope for Peace
Pope Leo XIV’s opening message has set the tone for a papacy focused on reconciliation, diplomacy, and the dignity of all people. With conflict surging in several parts of the world, his clear stance on peace, justice, and compassion may mark a turning point in the Vatican’s role in global affairs.
“The Church must walk together with the people,” Pope Leo said in his first speech. “Let us be a united Church, seeking together peace and justice in our time.”
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