The sun shone brightly on St. Peter’s Square as Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Sunday blessing on May 11, 2025, making a powerful appeal for peace in war-torn regions. The first American pontiff used this historic moment to call for an end to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing humanitarian needs and unity in a divided world.
America’s First Pope: A Bridge-Builder Emerges
Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, was born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 14, 1955. Before his election as Pope on May 8, 2025, he served as a missionary in Peru for over a decade, advocating for refugees and victims of political violence. His extensive experience in Latin America shaped his commitment to social justice and his understanding of the Church’s role in addressing inequality.
The 267th pontiff’s choice of the name “Leo” was inspired by Pope Leo XIII, known for his work on Catholic social teaching, signaling his priorities. As the first American-born pope, Leo XIV bridges North and South America, bringing fresh perspective to the Vatican’s leadership.
“Never Again War”: The Pope’s Urgent Peace Appeal
An estimated 100,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the Pope’s first Sunday blessing. In his address, Leo XIV didn’t mince words about ongoing conflicts:
“I carry in my heart the sufferings of the beloved Ukrainian people,” he declared. “May everything possible be done to reach an authentic, just, and lasting peace, as soon as possible. Let all the prisoners be freed and the children return to their own families.”
Regarding Gaza, he urged: “It pains me deeply what is happening in the Gaza Strip: may there be an immediate ceasefire! Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed.”
Historical Context and Continuity
The Pope referenced the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end, drawing parallels to current conflicts:
“The immense tragedy of the Second World War ended eighty years ago, on 8 May, after having claimed sixty million victims. In today’s dramatic scenario of a piecemeal third world war… I too address the world’s leaders, repeating the ever-timely appeal: ‘Never again war!'”
This echoed his predecessor, Pope Francis, who often described contemporary conflicts as a “third world war fought piecemeal.”
Global Reactions: Support and Criticism
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the Pope’s call for peace, stating, “The Pope’s words resonate deeply with the Ukrainian people, who yearn for peace and justice.”
Interfaith leaders praised the Pope’s approach. Rabbi David Rosen called it “a much-needed voice of compassion in a time of crisis,” while Imam Omar Suleiman noted the message “transcends religious boundaries and speaks to the shared humanity of all people.”
Not all reactions were positive. Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church criticized the remarks on Ukraine as “one-sided,” urging the Vatican to consider Russia’s perspective.
A Pastoral Approach to Global Crisis
Beyond conflict zones, Leo XIV addressed vocations within the Church and celebrated Mother’s Day. His inclusive message encouraged young people to consider religious service:
“Do not be afraid! Accept the invitation of the Church and of Christ the Lord!”
He concluded with an appeal to Mary, Queen of Peace, asking for her intercession to bring about the “miracle of peace” in troubled regions.
The Catholic Church’s Evolving Peace Advocacy
Leo XIV’s call for peace continues the Catholic Church’s longstanding tradition of peace advocacy. While Pope Francis often framed peace within broader social and environmental contexts, Leo XIV’s first blessing focused on immediate conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
His American background and missionary experience bring a unique perspective to papal peace advocacy, potentially strengthening ties with the Americas and the Global South.
What Comes Next: A Papacy Focused on Reconciliation
Pope Leo XIV’s first Sunday blessing sets the tone for a papacy committed to addressing global conflicts and promoting unity. As wars continue in Ukraine, Gaza, and elsewhere, religious leadership in peace advocacy remains crucial.
The question now: Will world leaders heed the Pope’s call for immediate action? For millions suffering in conflict zones, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Leo XIV’s leadership offers a chance for renewed diplomatic engagement and humanitarian focus – opportunities that shouldn’t be squandered in a world desperately needing peace.
