Léon XIV, aged 69, made history on May 8, 2025, by becoming the first American pope in the history of the Catholic Church. Celebrating his inaugural mass in the Sistine Chapel on May 9, 2025, he will deliver his first homily as pontiff, a moment eagerly anticipated by the faithful and observers alike.
During his first address from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, Léon XIV called for peace among all peoples. "I would like this greeting of peace to enter our hearts, to reach your families, to all men, wherever they are, to all peoples, to the entire earth," he stated, receiving thunderous applause from the crowd gathered in the square. The new pope emphasized the importance of building bridges through dialogue and moving forward united with God and one another.
Having spent over two decades in Peru as a missionary and archbishop, Léon XIV is known for his sensitivity to issues of poverty. The bishop of Chiclayo, where Léon XIV served, remarked that he dedicated his life to the mission in Peru and was always attentive to the value of popular religiosity. Léon XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, became a Peruvian citizen in 2015, further deepening his connection to the country he served.
World leaders have extended their congratulations to the new pope. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed hopes that Léon XIV would continue the peace efforts initiated by his predecessor, Pope François. Abbas emphasized the moral and political role of the Vatican in defending just causes, particularly the rights of the Palestinian people.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised Léon XIV's first speech as a powerful call for peace, fraternity, and responsibility. She expressed hope for a spiritual legacy that continues the path laid by Pope François. Similarly, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney conveyed his best wishes, highlighting the profound global challenges ahead.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also reached out to Léon XIV, expressing hope that the Vatican would maintain its moral and spiritual support for Ukraine in its quest for justice and peace with Russia. Zelensky acknowledged the Vatican's consistent stance in favor of international law and the protection of innocent civilians amidst the ongoing conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished the new pope success in promoting hope and reconciliation among all religions. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron called for Léon XIV's pontificate to be one of peace and hope, especially poignant as it coincided with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.
As Léon XIV prepares for his upcoming engagements, including the Regina Coeli prayer on May 11, 2025, and a meeting with journalists on May 12, the world watches closely. His decisions on where to reside—whether at the Santa Marta residence like Pope François or in the papal apartments—will be closely scrutinized. The new pope's commitment to addressing poverty and fostering peace will likely shape his early actions and the direction of his papacy.
On the international stage, Léon XIV's leadership is welcomed by various religious and political figures. The president of the Reformed Evangelical Church of Switzerland commended his open-mindedness and expressed hope for his blessings upon the Church. In a message of optimism, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed confidence that constructive dialogue would continue between Moscow and the Vatican based on shared Christian values.
As Léon XIV embarks on this historic journey, the eyes of millions of Catholics and non-Catholics alike are turned towards him. His unique background as the first American pope, combined with his extensive experience in Latin America, positions him as a leader capable of addressing contemporary issues with empathy and understanding. The world anticipates his vision for a united Church that actively seeks peace and justice for all.
In his first public address, Léon XIV's message resonated deeply with the themes of unity and compassion. He urged everyone to work hand in hand, building bridges of dialogue and understanding. "We must seek together how to be a missionary Church, a Church that builds bridges, that dialogues, always open to receive all those in need of our charity, our presence, our dialogue, and our love," he stated.
As the new pope prepares to celebrate his first mass and engage with the global community, it is clear that Léon XIV's leadership will be marked by a commitment to peace and a deep understanding of the challenges facing both the Church and the world today. His journey, beginning with a call to peace, sets a hopeful tone for his papacy as he seeks to inspire and unite people across the globe.
