New Pope Leo XIV's First Days: A Call for Peace and a Promise of Reform

Pope Leo XIV's Inauguration: A Call for Peace and a Legacy of Reform Vatican City, May 11, 2025 – Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Sunday prayer as the leader of the Catholic Church, addressing thousands in St. Peter's Square. His message focused on a simple yet powerful plea: "No more war." This call for peace resonated globally, given ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and between India and Pakistan. The new Pope's early days have been a mix of tradition and modernity. He made his first trip outside the Vatican to an ancient Augustinian shrine, arriving in a minivan and greeting the faithful with an impromptu visit. This contrasted sharply with the formal setting of his first meeting with cardinals, where he spoke of the importance of continuing the reform efforts of his predecessor, Pope Francis. "Let us take up this precious legacy and continue on the journey inspired by the same hope that is born of faith," Leo XIV stated. The appointment has been met with widespread celebration, particularly in Peru where Leo XIV dedicated a significant portion of his career as a missionary, teacher, and bishop. Matt Rivers, reporting from Peru, described the jubilant atmosphere at a special outdoor mass held in the Pope's honor at the Trujillo Cathedral. One Peruvian resident, holding a newspaper with the headline "Habemus Papam Peruano," expressed the widespread joy and pride in having a fellow Peruvian as the head of the Catholic Church. Sister Theresa Delgenio, an 84-year-old nun who taught the future Pope decades ago, described him as having a "global heart and a global vision." This sentiment reflects the international attention and hopes surrounding Leo XIV's papacy.