Islamabad, 11 May, 2025: Pope Leo XIV has urged for an end to ongoing conflicts around the world in his first Sunday address since being elected as the new head of the Catholic Church.
Speaking from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, the pontiff called for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all Israeli hostages.
He also expressed hope for a lasting and meaningful peace in Ukraine.
Pope Leo echoed a past warning by his predecessor, Pope Francis, who once described the state of global unrest as “a third world war in parts”.
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The appearance marked Pope Leo’s return to the loggia, the main balcony where he was introduced to the public after his election on Thursday.
The atmosphere was festive, with marching bands playing and crowds cheering as church bells rang out in celebration of a special Jubilee weekend.
The newly elected pontiff, the first American to lead the Catholic Church, also remembered mothers around the world.
He extended his good wishes to all mothers — including those who have passed away — as many countries, including the United States, observed Mother’s Day.
Earlier in the day, Pope Leo led a private mass near the tomb of St Peter, believed to be the first pope.
The site, located in the grottoes beneath St Peter’s Basilica, also houses the tombs of several former popes, including Benedict XVI.
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On Saturday, the 69-year-old made an unannounced visit to St Mary Major Basilica, where he prayed at the tomb of Pope Francis, marking his first public outing since taking office.
During his first formal audience, Pope Leo emphasized that the Church must play a central role in responding to modern challenges.
He warned that emerging technologies like artificial intelligence pose new threats to justice, labour rights, and human dignity — and called on Church leaders to take these issues seriously.
As the new pope begins his papacy, his words reflect a message of unity, compassion, and a desire for peace in a deeply divided world.
