Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, in his first remarks as pontiff on May 8, urged the faithful worldwide to embrace unity, peace, and dialogue, reaffirming the Church’s mission to be open to all, guided by love. “Peace be with you,” the pontiff declared from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, echoing the first greeting of the risen Jesus Christ to his disciples. The new pontiff addressed thousands gathered at the Vatican and millions more following globally, with a message centered on humility, encounter, and hope. ALSO READ: New Pope Leo XIV is from USA Pope Leo XIV, the first from the United States, succeeds Pope Francis, whose leadership over the past decade was marked by an emphasis on mercy, environmental responsibility, and outreach to the margins of society. In a symbolic moment, Leo XIV invoked the “brave and gentle” voice of Francis, expressing gratitude to his predecessor for blessing the world with a legacy of compassion and reform. “Allow me to continue that same blessing,” he said. “God loves us, all of us. Evil will not prevail. We are all in the hands of God.” ALSO READ: 'Great Honor': Trump welcomes first American Pope The new pope, who identifies himself as “a son of Saint Augustine,” referenced the early Church Father’s words, “With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop,” highlighting his vision of servant leadership. Addressing the Church of Rome in particular, he urged for renewed efforts to be a “missionary Church,” one that builds bridges through dialogue and welcomes all with open arms. “This square is open to all,” he said. “To all who need our charity, our presence, dialogue, love.” He also thanked his fellow cardinals for entrusting him with the papal office, pledging to walk with them in search of peace and justice – a theme that defined his entire message. ALSO READ: Rwandan church welcomes Pope Leo XIV with joy, surprise Pope Leo XIV’s address marked a clear continuation of Pope Francis’ pastoral tone, while also signaling a commitment to strengthen the Church’s missionary presence in a rapidly changing world. As bells rang over the Vatican, his words carried far beyond Rome: “Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward.” Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, is 69 years old. He is from Chicago, Illinois. He was elected by the College of Cardinals on May 8, second day of conclave, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, at the age of 88. Pope Francis, who had led the Church from 2013, was widely known for his pastoral approach and advocacy for social justice.
