Thousands of worshippers flocked to St Peter's Square on Sunday to hear Pope Leo XIV deliver his first Easter Mass address as pontiff. Framed by white roses on the central balcony of the Vatican's basilica, the pope called on those who have the power to unleash wars to choose peace. On this day of celebration, let us abandon every desire for conflict, domination and power, and implore the Lord to grant his peace to a world ravaged by wars, he said.
The first US-born pope has become a vocal critic of the Iran war and has used recent public addresses to denounce global conflicts and urge de-escalation. Pope Leo waved to the crowd gathered in the square below before delivering his Urbi et Orbi blessing, which translates to to the city and the world.
St Peter's Square was adorned with bright spring flowers, where Leo encouraged believers to actively work towards peace rather than resigning to violence. Let those who have weapons lay them down. Let those who have the power to unleash wars choose peace, he emphasized.
His message did not specify any particular country or conflict, reflecting a more general plea for harmony. He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who delivered his last Easter address the previous year before passing away. Throughout his address, Pope Leo reiterated the importance of reconciliation and urged world leaders to heed the call for peace.
The first US-born pope has become a vocal critic of the Iran war and has used recent public addresses to denounce global conflicts and urge de-escalation. Pope Leo waved to the crowd gathered in the square below before delivering his Urbi et Orbi blessing, which translates to to the city and the world.
St Peter's Square was adorned with bright spring flowers, where Leo encouraged believers to actively work towards peace rather than resigning to violence. Let those who have weapons lay them down. Let those who have the power to unleash wars choose peace, he emphasized.
His message did not specify any particular country or conflict, reflecting a more general plea for harmony. He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who delivered his last Easter address the previous year before passing away. Throughout his address, Pope Leo reiterated the importance of reconciliation and urged world leaders to heed the call for peace.
