Vatican City (AP) – Pope Leo XIII has called for a fair and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, urging for the release of hostages and humanitarian aid during his first Sunday blessing.
From the loggia at St. Peter’s Cathedral, he expressed the need for global powers to heed the call “Never Again War.”
It marked Leo’s first appearance on the loggia, coming after a remarkable election as the first pope from the United States on Thursday. He conveyed a strong message of peace.
While he embraced the Pope’s tradition of noon blessings, Leo added some personal touches. Unlike his predecessor, who greeted the public from a window in the Apostles Palace, Leo chose to stand in the center of the square.
He also introduced a new element by singing Regina Caeli’s prayers and incorporating Latin prayers typically recited during Easter.
On this occasion, he donned the Pope’s simple white cassock and a cross, opting for a less formal look than the red cape he wore during his inaugural night. For that event, he had sported more elaborate attire, including the relics of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica, presented by Augustine’s religious order.
Referencing Pope Francis, Leo decried the many conflicts currently ravaging the world, labeling it “World War III.”
“I carry the suffering of my beloved Ukrainians in my heart,” he remarked. “Let’s strive for genuine, just, and lasting peace as swiftly as we can.”
He welcomed the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, calling for the release of war prisoners and the return of Ukrainian children to their families.
He also demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, advocating for humanitarian relief to aid exhausted civilians and all hostages.
Leo mentioned that Sunday coincides with Mother’s Day in many countries and extended wishes to all mothers, “including those in heaven.”
The square was filled with excitement as marching bands celebrated a special Jubilee weekend, with St. Peter’s Cathedral bells ringing. Italian authorities estimated around 100,000 attendees were present.
Earlier that day, Leo held a private mass near St. Peter’s tomb, led by Rev. Alejandro Moral Anton of Augustine’s Order. This was held in the cave beneath St. Peter, known as the traditional burial location for St. Peter, considered the first Pope.
This area, which is generally accessible to the public, also contains the tombs of previous popes, including Pope Benedict XVI.
On Saturday, Leo prayed in front of Pope Francis’ tomb at Major St. Mary’s Cathedral.
The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary was elected as the 267th Pope on Thursday following Francis’ passing on April 21.
