A hush fell over St. Peter’s Square as Pope Leo XIV made his first appearance as the leader of the Catholic Church. The newly elected pontiff, stepping into the shoes of the beloved Pope Francis, delivered a message of hope, urging unity and continued outreach to the marginalized.
“Peace is not passive—it is a choice we must make every day,” he told the crowd, his words echoing across the historic square. He spoke of a “disarming peace,” one that requires humility and persistence, and reaffirmed the Church’s mission to serve those in need. His reference to Pope Francis’ famous Easter blessing—”God loves you all, and evil will not win!”—drew cheers from the faithful.
The reaction online was immediate. Many praised his inclusive vision, while others couldn’t resist drawing political parallels. “He’s talking to you, Donnie!” one commenter joked, alluding to former U.S. President Donald Trump. Another noted the irony of an American pope advocating for bridge-building in an era of walls and division.
Pope Leo XIV also paid tribute to his former diocese in Peru, where he spent years as a missionary and bishop. “The Church must be close to those who suffer,” he emphasized, announcing a day of prayer to Our Lady of Pompeii. His humility shone through as he thanked the cardinals for their trust, quoting Saint Augustine to underscore his dual role as both a servant and a shepherd.
His election marks a historic first—an American pope, born in Chicago, now leading 1.3 billion Catholics. With a background in pastoral work and Vatican reform, Leo XIV is poised to continue the legacy of openness and renewal. As the world adjusts to this new chapter, his words serve as a reminder: faith, at its core, is about connection, not division.
