Pope Leo XIV made a passionate appeal for peace during his first Regina Coeli address on May 11, standing on the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica. Echoing the call for peace of his predecessor, Pope Francis, the newly elected pontiff addressed the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square and those watching worldwide, urging an end to global conflicts.
“In today’s dramatic context of a third world war fought piecemeal … I too appeal to the powerful of the world by repeating these ever-relevant words: never again war!” the pope declared, as reported by Francesca Merlo.
Pope Leo XIV referenced the devastation of the Second World War, which ended 80 years ago, on May 8, after claiming the lives of 60 million people. Drawing attention to contemporary conflicts, he expressed his sorrow for the ongoing suffering in Ukraine and Gaza.
“I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” he said, emphasizing the urgent need for “a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible.” The pope further urged the international community to secure the release of prisoners and the return of children to their families in the war-torn region.
Turning to the Gaza Strip, Pope Leo XIV expressed his profound concern for the escalating humanitarian crisis. “I am deeply pained by what is happening,” he said, calling for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian aid for the civilian population, and the release of all hostages.
Despite the grim realities of global conflicts, Pope Leo XIV expressed cautious optimism in response to the recently announced ceasefire between India and Pakistan. “I hope that, through the upcoming negotiations, a lasting agreement may soon be reached,” he said.
Reflecting on the global nature of conflict, he added, “How many other conflicts are there in the world?”
Concluding his address, Pope Leo entrusted his “heartfelt appeal” to Mary, Queen of Peace, praying that she might “present it to the Lord Jesus and obtain for us the miracle of peace.”
