In brief
In a heartfelt inaugural address delivered from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV urged people around the globe to seek peace, embodying the core values of love and understanding.
May 8, 2025 - In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV made his first public speech on Thursday, directly addressing millions from the iconic balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. His remarks, delivered passionately in both Italian and Spanish, emphasized his commitment to promoting global peace and empathy towards those in need. “I wish for peace to enter your hearts, to reach all families and peoples, wherever they are. This peace comes from God, who loves us without limits,” he expressed, channeling the spirit of his predecessor, Pope Francis. The new Pope acknowledged the hard-won peace that had been blessed by Pope Francis, affirming his dedication to continue fostering unity and compassion.Pope Leo XIV underscored the Christian call for discipleship, highlighting humanity's need for connection through dialogue and mutual support. “Together, we will go forward,” he stated. Urging the crowd to walk hand in hand towards peace and justice, he stressed the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and dedication to Jesus Christ. His concluding remarks included a personal homage to Saint Augustine, reinforcing the theme of collective progress as a united Church. "May we all walk together towards that homeland that God has prepared for us," he proclaimed, leaving listeners with a message of hope and solidarity. As the world waits to see how Pope Leo XIV will navigate the complexities of the modern Church, his inaugural address promises a renewed focus on love, service, and the quest for peace in an often chaotic world.
