Pope Leo XIV Delivers Unity Message at Inaugural Mass, Engages Ukrainian President on Peace Efforts
VATICAN CITY — May 18, 2025
Historic Homily Emphasizes Solidarity and Reform
Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff of U.S. and Peruvian heritage, inaugurated his papacy on Sunday with a stirring call for global unity and systemic economic reform during a Mass in St. Peter’s Square. Before a crowd of tens of thousands—including pilgrims, world leaders, and interfaith representatives—the newly elected Pope condemned exploitative economic structures that “plunder Earth’s resources” and perpetuate inequality, urging humanity to reject divisions fueled by “hatred, prejudice, and fear of difference.”
In a marked departure from autocratic governance, he vowed to lead the Catholic Church with humility, pledging to govern “without yielding to the temptation of autocracy.” His address resonated with dignitaries such as U.S. Vice President JD Vance, German and Peruvian officials, and European royalty, underscoring the event’s geopolitical significance.
Diplomatic Focus on Ukraine
Following the Mass, Pope Leo underscored his commitment to peace in Ukraine during a private audience with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska. The pontiff reiterated his plea for “a just and lasting peace,” echoing his earlier offer to host Russia-Ukraine negotiations at the Vatican after Russian President Vladimir Putin declined talks in Turkey.
Zelensky praised the Pope’s “unwavering support for Ukraine” and his moral clarity in advocating for dialogue. “His Holiness’ voice is vital in defending sovereignty and humanity,” the Ukrainian leader stated.
Global Pilgrims Hail ‘New Hope’ for Church
The historic ceremony drew diverse crowds, from devout Catholics to curious tourists. Michelle, a pilgrim from Germany, described the atmosphere as “electric,” arriving hours early to secure a vantage point. Joe, a Missouri native on vacation, expressed pride in the first American pope: “This transcends denomination—it’s about unity and inspiration.”
Pia, a Chilean philosophy professor in Rome, highlighted symbolic gestures in the Pope’s inaugural remarks, including his invocation of Christ’s message, “Peace be with you,” and his call to “cast aside fear.” “He understands the Church’s role in a fractured world—preaching hope, not division,” she told the BBC.
Ceremonial Traditions Cement Papal Transition
The inauguration concluded with centuries-old rituals: the placement of the pallium, a white woolen band symbolizing pastoral authority, and the Ring of the Fisherman, engraved with St. Peter’s image. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines presided over the rites, as Pope Leo blessed the assembly with the Gospel—a gesture marking his formal ascension to the See of Rome.
As crowds dispersed, pilgrims lingered in the square, many echoing Pia’s sentiment: a renewed sense of purpose under a papacy bridging faith and global diplomacy.
