In his first Sunday noon blessing on May 11, 2025, newly elected Pope Leo XIV broke tradition with a bold message to the world’s major powers, urging peace and justice. Speaking from St. Peter’s Basilica before nearly 100,000 people, he pleaded for ceasefires in Ukraine and Gaza, the release of hostages, and humanitarian aid for civilians. “Never again war,” he declared.

Drawing from Pope Francis’ legacy, Leo called today’s world a “third world war in pieces.” He praised peace efforts, including a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and urged unity in a divided world.

Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Pope Leo is the first American pontiff. His papacy promises to advocate for the marginalized, influenced by his missionary work in South America. His brother, John Prevost, shared that even as a child, a neighbor predicted he’d one day become pope.

As global reactions pour in, Pope Leo’s leadership already signals a papacy rooted in compassion, courage, and bold truth-telling.