Leo XIV, the new pope, launches an appeal for peace to humanity and provokes international reactions
By choosing to name himself Leo XIV, former Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost inaugurates his pontificate in a manner rich in symbolism and expectations. The newly elected Vatican official, in his first speech from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, launched a committed appeal for peace to humanity, emphasizing the urgency of interreligious dialogue and global solidarity. Leo XIV and his opening speech for peace On May 8, 2025, in a climate of global tension, Leo XIV expressed his desire to build bridges to foster social cohesion and tolerance. In the days that followed, he would celebrate his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel, where he would deliver a homily that the world eagerly awaited. The call for easing tensions in Ukraine and GazaThe need for a renewed commitment to peace in the Middle EastA message seen as a promise of hope for all peoples
The Pope’s first words and their implications
During his address, Leo XIV explicitly referred to his desire to continue the legacy of peace of his predecessor, Francis. He called for interreligious dialogue, thus laying the foundations for a rethought spiritual diplomacy. This speech quickly sparked varied international reactions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GT1bjnvLHPQ International Reactions Leaders Concerned KeywordsCongratulations on his call for peace
- Mahmoud Abbas (Palestine)
- Peace efforts, dialogue
- Various media, highlighting solidarity
Mark Carney (Canada)
Wisdom, global challengesEmphasis on unity and peace Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa) Hope, solidarity The impact of Leo XIV’s pontificate on international relations
| Strengthening interreligious dialogue | Acting as an intermediary in global conflicts | Promoting deeper global solidarity |
|---|---|---|
| Diverse opinions in the political landscape | Divergences and convergences intertwined in the political sphere following Leo XIV’s speech. Applause was heard on both the right and the left, reflecting a promise of peaceful dialogue. Political figures express their hope: | Marine Le Pen, evoking the importance of a message of peace |
| Jean-Luc Mélenchon, emphasizing the urgent need for reconciliation in a fractured world | Giorgia Meloni, calling his remarks a “powerful call for peace” | The challenges of the new Pope within the Church and beyond |
| Indeed, Leo XIV will inherit a Church facing pressing challenges: the social crisis, international conflicts, and the need for internal reforms. Questions such as the role of women in the Church and responses to societal issues are on everyone’s minds. The Pope’s upcoming meetings, such as the Regina Caeli prayer, will be closely scrutinized. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwM6iay5s3w | Upcoming Events for Pope Leo XIV | Date |
Type of Event
Private Mass with the Cardinals
- Friday, May 9, 2025
- Inaugural Homily
- Prayer of the Regina Caeli Sunday, May 11, 2025 Public Prayer
Meeting with Journalists
Monday, May 12, 2025
- Press Conference
- In short, Pope Leo XIV calls for a new global commitment, focused on peace and solidarity.
- This new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church could well mark a turning point, not only for the faithful, but for all humanity.
