Pope Leo XIV raises alarm on global conflict in first mass

By Daisy Okiring

Pope Leo XIV issued a solemn warning about the looming danger of a third world war in his first Sunday address as head of the Catholic Church, calling for an urgent global push for peace and humanitarian aid in crisis zones.

Speaking from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to tens of thousands of pilgrims in Vatican City, the newly elected pope—formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—denounced escalating global tensions and appealed to world leaders to reject war. “In the face of today’s troubling signs pointing toward a new global conflict, I echo the plea: never again war!” he declared.

The 69-year-old pontiff, originally from Chicago and a naturalized Peruvian citizen, took office on Thursday after being chosen in a secret conclave of cardinals. His address, blending optimism with moral urgency, referenced the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end and warned against repeating the mistakes of the past. He expressed deep concern for the suffering in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, urging a ceasefire and the release of hostages, while emphasizing the delivery of vital humanitarian assistance.

Pope embraces Francis’s legacy of global solidarity

Continuing the tone of his predecessor, Pope Francis, Leo XIV called for “genuine, just, and lasting peace,” highlighting the Church’s mission to serve as a moral compass amid geopolitical turmoil. Addressing youth in particular, he said they need “credible examples of selfless faith and service,” urging young Catholics to look beyond cynicism toward lives of meaningful contribution.

Leo’s words were met with emotional reactions from attendees in St Peter’s Square. Spanish pilgrim Gloria Rojas, 26, said she found comfort in his tone, which mirrored Francis’s commitment to international justice. “He hasn’t turned away from the world’s wounds—he’s stepping into them,” she said.

Worshippers came from across the globe, many waving flags or singing, while others wept with joy at seeing the first American-born pope. Among them was Alejandrina Espinosa, a 59-year-old Quechua Catholic from Peru, who praised the pope’s decades of missionary service in her country. “He gave dignity back to the forgotten people,” she said. “Now, he must help reunite the world.”

Humble beginnings and a bold vision

Earlier that morning, Pope Leo celebrated Mass in the Vatican Grottoes near the tomb of St Peter—symbolizing continuity with the Church’s ancient roots. In his homily, he spoke of humility, listening, and resisting the temptation to shut out others. “The Church must not presume to own the truth alone,” he said.

The new pontiff also paid tribute to Pope Francis, visiting his simple marble tomb and pledging to carry forward his legacy of servant leadership and simplicity. Observers noted Pope Leo’s calm and reserved style, contrasting with Francis’s often confrontational energy, yet they said his early gestures reflected a similar pastoral focus.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, welcomed Leo’s tone. “These first steps bring hope. The response from the faithful speaks volumes,” he said in an interview.

Leo XIV will officially begin his pontificate next Sunday, May 18, with an inaugural Mass at St Peter’s. His immediate schedule includes meetings with diplomats, media briefings, and continued dialogue on the Church’s global challenges.