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Pope Leo XIV Calls For Global Ceasefire In First Major Public Address

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1 month ago

May 11, 2025.

Pope Leo XIV Calls For Global Ceasefire In First Major Public Address
Celebrates Mass, pledges to continue Pope Francis’s legacy
Promises missionary focus and service to the marginalized

Pope Leo XIV has issued a stirring call for peace and the end of armed conflict across the globe, using his second official public appearance to urge world leaders to cease all wars, with a particular focus on Gaza and Ukraine.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that addressing tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the newly elected pontiff—born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago—spoke with conviction about the urgent need for peace during a time of widespread conflict and humanitarian crisis.

“Dear brothers and sisters, happy Sunday!” the pope greeted the jubilant crowd, waving flags and cheering as he delivered his message following a prayer to the Virgin Mary.

Drawing attention to the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Pope Leo reflected on the devastating loss of over 60 million lives and reminded the world of the consequences of prolonged conflict.

“In today’s dramatic scenario of a third world war in pieces, as Pope Francis often said, I repeat this urgent plea to the world’s leaders: No more war!” Leo declared, echoing his predecessor’s warning of fragmented global warfare.

He called for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict and highlighted the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza. “Aid must reach the exhausted civilian population, and all hostages must be freed,” he said, stressing the need for compassion and international solidarity.

Pope Leo XIV was elected as the 267th head of the Catholic Church last month, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. A former missionary in Peru, Leo described himself as a “humble servant of God” and an “unworthy successor” to St. Peter.

Earlier in the day, the pope celebrated Mass at the altar near the tomb of St. Peter in the Vatican Grottoes. On Saturday, he paid a private visit to the tomb of Pope Francis at the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica, vowing to carry forward his legacy of humility, service, and advocacy for the poor.

“I will be driven by the example of Pope Francis, with his dedication to service and simplicity,” Leo affirmed.

The crowd’s response to Leo’s message was one of warmth and hope. Among them was Alejandrina Espinosa, a 59-year-old Peruvian who praised the pope’s work among marginalized communities.

“He stole our hearts because he awakened true Christianity. The pope turned his mission towards forgotten, desolate people,” she said.

Pope Leo XIV Calls For Global Ceasefire

Church leaders have expressed optimism about the direction of Leo’s papacy. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, told Corriere della Sera, “We are at the beginning of his pontificate, but his early steps already give us hope. His presence has inspired great confidence.”

As Pope Leo begins his tenure, many expect a renewed focus on missionary outreach and support for Catholics in remote and underserved regions. His gentler, contemplative style contrasts with the bold and sometimes divisive tone of his predecessor, yet his message remains equally powerful.