Pope Leo calls for global leaders to choose peace in his first Easter Mass
Pope Leo Calls for Global Leaders to Choose Peace in His First Easter Mass
On Easter Sunday, thousands of attendees gathered in St Peter’s Square to witness Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass address as pontiff. The ceremony, held beneath a canopy of white roses on the Vatican’s central balcony, featured a powerful plea for harmony. The leader of the Catholic Church urged those in positions of authority to prioritize peace over conflict, emphasizing the need for global leaders to act decisively in times of tension.
Leo, the first pope born in the United States, has been a prominent voice against the Iran war and other international disputes. In recent speeches, he has stressed the importance of de-escalation and reconciliation, criticizing the increasing acceptance of violence in modern society. His message resonated with the crowd, who listened intently as he delivered the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, a traditional Latin phrase meaning “to the city and the world.”
The Pope’s Message
“On this day of celebration, let us abandon every desire for conflict, domination and power, and implore the Lord to grant his peace to a world ravaged by wars,” he said. “Let those who have weapons lay them down. Let those have the power to unleash wars choose peace.”
St Peter’s Square was adorned with vibrant spring flowers, including rows of daffodils and a colorful arrangement of purple, red, and white blooms. The pope’s speech highlighted a growing detachment from violence, urging people to reflect on their role in perpetuating conflict. “We are growing accustomed to violence, resigning ourselves to it, and becoming indifferent, indifferent to the deaths of thousands of people,” he added, emphasizing the urgency of the message.
Reflection on the Resurrection
Leo drew parallels between the Easter narrative and the current global situation, noting that Jesus’ resurrection symbolizes hope amid suffering. “Three days after being crucified, Christ emerged entirely nonviolent,” the pope remarked, using the story to underscore the importance of peace. For Christians, Easter is a cornerstone of the faith, representing the triumph of life over death and the foundation of their beliefs.
During the Mass, the Vatican’s bells chimed as the crowd erupted in applause. The pope concluded with greetings in multiple languages, including Latin, Arabic, and Chinese. He also announced plans to return to the basilica on 11 April for a peace prayer vigil, further demonstrating his commitment to resolving global tensions.
A Legacy of Leadership
Leo’s address marked a departure from recent traditions, as he did not explicitly name specific countries or conflicts. Instead, he honored his predecessor, Pope Francis, who delivered his final Easter speech hours before passing away last year. This subtle nod highlighted the continuity of the Church’s mission while reflecting Leo’s distinct approach to leadership.
In the weeks leading up to the Mass, the pope has consistently condemned ongoing global wars, using Holy Week sermons to warn against complacency. His appeal to Donald Trump on Tuesday, calling for a path to end the Iran conflict, showcased his willingness to engage directly with political figures to foster peace.