In his first Sunday midday blessing as pope, Pope Leo XIV asked for an immediate truce in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the delivery of humanitarian relief, as well as a fair and sustainable peace in Ukraine.
Echoing the peace-driven legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV addresses an estimated 100,000 people from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, saying, “I, too, address the world’s great powers by repeating the ever-present call ‘never again war.'”
The Pope called for the release of detainees and the reunion of estranged families, expressing his profound compassion for the suffering of the Ukrainian people.
He also hailed the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, expecting it would lead to a durable deal.
The audience, overflowing with marching bands in town for a special Jubilee weekend, exploded in applause and music as the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica tolled.
The US is one of many nations commemorating Mother’s Day on Sunday, and Leo, the first American pope, greeted all moms, including those in heaven, a happy Mother’s Day.
