Pope Leo XIV Delivers First Blessing, Calls for Global Peace and Unity in Ukrain and Gaza

In his inaugural Sunday blessing on May 11, 2025, Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff, addressed a crowd of approximately 100,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square. He called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a just resolution in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for global peace.

Marking Mother’s Day, Pope Leo honored mothers worldwide and encouraged renewed religious vocations, highlighting concerns over declining numbers discussed during the recent conclave. His choice to pray the Regina Caeli in Latin and don traditional papal attire signaled a blend of reverence for tradition and a commitment to unity within the Church.

Formerly Bishop Robert Prevost, Pope Leo XIV brings decades of missionary experience in Peru and roles within the Vatican. His diverse background and inclusive approach have sparked hope among Catholics across ideological lines, with many viewing him as a potential bridge-builder capable of healing divisions within the Church.

As he prepares for his formal installation Mass, Pope Leo XIV’s early gestures suggest a papacy focused on compassion, inclusivity, and a reaffirmation of core Catholic values.

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