Pope Leo XIV Calls For Peace In Ukraine, Gaza

Pope Leo XIV called for a genuine and just peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during his first Sunday noon blessing as pontiff.

The new pope delivered messages of peace. I Photo: Vatican News X

The appearance featured symbolic gestures suggesting a message of unity in a polarized Catholic Church, Nicole Winfield and Giovanna Dell’Orto reported for the Associated Press (AP).

“I too address the world’s great powers by repeating the ever-present call: ‘Never again war,’” Leo said from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica to an estimated 100,000 people below.

It was his first return to the loggia since his initial appearance to the world on Thursday evening, following his historic election as the first pope from the United States. On that occasion as well, he delivered a message of peace.

Leo resumed the papal tradition of offering the Sunday blessing at noon but added several personal touches.

While his predecessors typically delivered the address from the studio window of the Apostolic Palace, off to the side of the piazza, Leo spoke from the very center of St. Peter’s Square—symbolically placing himself at the heart of the Church.

He also introduced a new element by singing the Regina Caeli, a Latin prayer traditionally recited during the Easter season.