Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural speech begs for peace and unity

As he reaffirmed the Church’s purpose to be accessible to everyone, directed by love, newly elected Pope Leo XIV called on the faithful around the world to embrace unity, peace, and conversation in his first speech as pope on May 8.

From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope echoed the first greeting that the risen Jesus Christ gave to his disciples: “Peace be with you.”

The next pope’s sermon, which focused on humility, encounter, and hope, was delivered to thousands of people in the Vatican and millions more around the world.

Pope Francis, who for the previous ten years has led with a focus on mercy, environmental responsibility, and outreach to the underprivileged, is succeeded by Pope Leo XIV, the first American to hold the office.

Invoking Francis’ “brave and gentle” voice, Leo XIV thanked his predecessor for leaving a legacy of change and compassion that has blessed the globe.

He answered, “Give me permission to continue that same blessing.” “All people are loved by God. Evil can’t win. God is in control of all of us.

The new pope, who calls himself “a son of Saint Augustine,” highlighted his idea of servant leadership by quoting the early Church Father’s statement, “With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop.”

He specifically called on the Church of Rome to make a renewed effort to be a “missionary Church,” one that welcomes everyone with open arms and develops bridges via communication.

“Anyone can use this square,” he declared. “To all who require our love, compassion, presence, and conversation.”

Along with thanking his fellow cardinals for giving him the papal office, he promised to accompany them in their pursuit of justice and peace, which ran throughout his entire speech.

Pope Francis’ pastoral tone was evidently carried over into Pope Leo XIV’s speech, which similarly indicated a resolve to bolster the Church’s missionary presence in a world that was changing quickly.

As the Vatican rang with bells, his words, “Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward,” reverberated far beyond Rome.

Pope Leo XIV is 69 years old and was born Robert Francis Prevost. He’s an Illinois native from Chicago.

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21 at the age of 88, he was elected by the College of Cardinals on May 8, the second day of the conclave.

Pope Francis, the Church’s leader since 2013, was well-known for his support of social justice and pastoral style.