Context:

Pope Leo XIV addressed tens of thousands in St. Peter's Square during his first Sunday blessing, calling for an end to wars and advocating for peace, echoing the sentiments of his predecessor, Pope Francis. His appeal included a focus on the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, urging for the release of prisoners and the return of children to their families, as well as a cease-fire in Gaza and humanitarian aid distribution. Elected as the first American pope, Leo emphasized his commitment to ordinary people and the continuation of Francis's work towards greater collegiality and support for marginalized communities. During the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, he encouraged young people to consider religious callings, highlighting the church's need for more clergy. The occasion also marked the beginning of the Jubilee Year, a period of penance and forgiveness, with millions expected to visit Rome for various events and celebrations.

Dive Deeper:

• Pope Leo XIV, addressing a large crowd from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, called for an end to wars, invoking the memory of World War II and urging world leaders to prevent further conflicts. His speech resonated with themes frequently addressed by his predecessor, Pope Francis, especially concerning global violence.

• Leo XIV, the first American pope, was elected on the second day of the conclave and has since engaged in multiple activities, including celebrating his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel and meeting with cardinals, where he expressed his dedication to aligning with ordinary people and continuing Francis's legacy of promoting collegiality and supporting marginalized groups.

• In his Sunday speech, Leo XIV focused on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, advocating for an 'authentic, just and lasting peace,' the release of prisoners, and the return of children to their families. He also called for a cease-fire in Gaza and the distribution of humanitarian aid to its civilian population.

• Marking the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, Leo XIV encouraged more Catholics to join the priesthood and religious orders, underscoring the church's current need for clergy amidst a decline in religious vocations. He invoked Pope John Paul II's words to inspire young people not to fear accepting the church's call.

• The Jubilee Year, occurring every 25 years, has begun, and Pope Leo XIV is preparing for the influx of pilgrims seeking penance and forgiveness. The Jubilee of Bands added a festive atmosphere to the pope's first Sunday address, with marching bands performing in St. Peter's Square.

• Pope Leo XIV delivered his homily in both English and Italian, advocating for clerics to listen and engage with others without judgment. He emphasized building bridges and avoiding the presumption of having exclusive access to the truth.

• The Vatican attendants removed the seals from the Apostolic Palace, where Francis's apartment had been locked after his death, as Pope Leo XIV has not yet determined his residence, following Francis's example of living in a Vatican guesthouse instead of the traditional palace.