Pope Leo XIV called for an end to war during his second public appearance as head of the Catholic Church, speaking from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Sunday, May 11.
“Happy Sunday, dear brothers and sisters!” greeted the first American pope, as tens of thousands cheered in St. Peter’s Square. Born in Chicago, Leo—formerly Robert Francis Prevost—used his address to urge peace in a world still scarred by conflict, referencing the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end.
Quoting Pope Francis, he warned of a “third world war in pieces” and appealed to world leaders: “No more war!” He called for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and expressed sorrow over the violence in Gaza, urging a ceasefire and the release of hostages. “Humanitarian aid must reach the exhausted civilian population,” he said.
The new pope’s appearance drew a massive crowd of pilgrims, including priests, nuns, and young people waving flags and singing. Many came to see the man chosen as the 267th pope—entrusted with healing divisions in the Church and addressing modern challenges.
Leo, 69, who spent years as a missionary in Peru, described himself as a “humble servant of God” and an “unworthy successor” to St. Peter during a meeting with cardinals the day before.
Among the crowd was Alejandrina Espinosa, 59, of Peru’s Quechua community, who wept at the pope’s election. “He stole our hearts,” she said. “I hope he can unite all religions to save the world. Humanity is in crisis—we are killing each other.”
Earlier that morning, Pope Leo celebrated Mass near the tomb of St. Peter, deep beneath the basilica.
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