Pope Leo XIV Calls for End to Global Conflicts in First Sunday Addres
VATICAN CITY – Pope Leo XIV has issued a heartfelt appeal for peace in his first public Sunday address since assuming leadership of the Catholic Church, calling on world powers to end ongoing conflicts and embrace “lasting peace.”
Speaking from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica during the traditional Regina Caeli prayer, the pontiff urged an end to the war in Ukraine and called for a ceasefire in Gaza. He also welcomed Saturday’s ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, describing it as “a hopeful step towards regional stability.”
“Let there be no more war,” Pope Leo declared, as thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square to witness his second public appearance since being elected by the College of Cardinals last week.
The pope, born Robert Francis Prevost, is the first American to lead the Catholic Church. He succeeds Pope Francis and is expected to continue efforts to address global inequality, promote peace, and reform church governance.
On Saturday, Pope Leo visited a Marian shrine outside Rome and later paid homage to his predecessor by praying at the tomb of Pope Francis inside the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
His formal inauguration as the 267th pope will take place during a public mass at St Peter’s Square on 18 May
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