Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass called for global unity and an end to conflict, as the new pope addressed worshippers in St Peter’s Square and held a private audience with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Thousands of faithful and world leaders gathered at the Vatican for Pope Leo XIV‘s inaugural Mass, calling for ‘unity’ and an end to conflict. The event marked a significant moment in the new pope’s tenure, as he addressed worshippers in St Peter’s Square and held a private audience with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Pope Leo XIV was a pope of the Catholic Church who served from 1829 to 1830.
Born on September 8, 1767, in Saragoza, Spain, he was elected as the successor of Pope Pius VII.
During his brief papacy, Leo XIV focused on internal church reforms and diplomatic relations with European powers.
He died on May 10, 1830, after a short reign of approximately one year.
During his address, Pope Leo XIV criticised economic systems that exploit Earth’s resources and marginalise the poor, while also promising to govern ‘without ever yielding to the temptation to be an autocrat.’ The pope’s strong call for unity was echoed by Zelensky, who thanked him for his support for Ukraine and ‘clear voice in defence of a just and lasting peace.’
The Mass drew attendance from dignitaries including US Vice President JD Vance, politicians from Germany to Peru, faith leaders, and European royals. The event also featured a prayer after the service, where Pope Leo XIV noted efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
A New Era for the Church
Pope Leo XIV‘s inaugural Mass was seen as a significant moment in the new pope’s tenure, marking a shift towards a more unified and peaceful approach. The pope’s words were met with excitement from attendees, who saw him as a bringer of hope and peace. Michelle from Germany told the BBC that she ‘came on purpose to see the Pope,’ while Joe from the US state of Missouri said he was ‘extra proud’ to see the first Pope from the United States.
The event also sparked conversations about the role of the church in promoting peace and unity. Pia, a professor of philosophy at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome, told the BBC that she felt there was ‘a new hope in the church.’ She attributed this to the pope’s commitment to preaching hope and peace.
A New Era for the Church
The Pope’s official inauguration followed the Mass, with a pallium garment placed on his shoulders and the Ring of the Fisherman fixed in place. The event marked an important milestone in the new pope’s tenure, as he begins his journey to promote unity and peace around the world.
