In brief
In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV delivered his first public address on May 8, 2025, expressing heartfelt messages aimed at fostering peace and solidarity among all people. The address, articulated from the iconic balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, was a heartfelt call to global unity and compassion, marking a new chapter in the Church's leadership.
Pope Leo XIV opened his speech in both Italian and Spanish with a resounding greeting: "Peace be with you!" He elaborated on the essence of peace, drawing connections to the risen Christ, and emphasized God’s unconditional love for humanity. He urged the world to remember the suffering and reach out with compassion, reinforcing that true peace comes from God and is accessible to all.Continuing the legacy of Pope Francis, Leo XIV invoked a vision of collective strength and unity among the faithful. He stressed the importance of dialogue and collaboration, encouraging all to embody the light of Christ as they navigate the challenges of the world. “Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward,” he stated passionately.Pope Leo XIV also took a moment to express gratitude to Pope Francis for his leadership and to his Cardinal brothers for their trust in electing him as the new leader. Inspired by Saint Augustine’s teachings, he reaffirmed the Church's mission to strive for a world marked by justice and peace, saying, “Let us all walk together towards that homeland that God has prepared for us.”As the world reflects on this pivotal speech, the Pope's message resonates deeply, inviting individuals of all faiths to come together for a common cause—a call that holds relevance in today's tumultuous times.
