Pope Leo XIV has called for an end to war globally, urging world leaders to work towards peace in his second official public appearance since becoming the leader of the Catholic Church.
Addressing tens of thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff cited the recent 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a conflict that killed 60 million people.
The Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV appealed for a “genuine, just and lasting peace” in Ukraine and expressed deep sadness over events in the Gaza Strip, calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. “Humanitarian aid must be provided to the exhausted civilian population and all the hostages must be freed,” he emphasized.
In his address, Pope Leo XIV repeated the timeless appeal: “No more war!” echoing the sentiments of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
The Pope’s message was delivered from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where he led the midday recitation of the “Regina Coeli” prayer, a traditional Eastertide prayer honoring the Virgin Mary.
The crowd, estimated to be over 100,000 people, waved flags from their native countries and sang the “Regina Coeli” prayer with the Pope.
Many were moved to tears by the pontiff’s words, which resonated deeply with the global audience. Peruvian pilgrims were particularly enthusiastic, waving a flag that read “Chiclayo presente” in reference to the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, where Pope Leo XIV served as priest and bishop.
