Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Ukraine and Gaza in first blessing as pontiff

Pope Leo XIV gave his first blessing as pontiff this Sunday. In his speech, he called for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Leo XIV celebrated the Regina Coeli prayer in St Peter's Square for the first time on Sunday in front of the faithful.There were an estimated 150,000 people in the square, with heavy security measures in place since the morning. The Pontiff debuted from the central Loggia of the Basilica with a "Good Sunday" and then began the prayer amidst the applause of the faithful.Judging by the attendance and applause, the affection of the faithful for Pope Leo XIV seems to grow day by day.The pope spoke, often interrupted by the choruses of the faithful. "Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Sunday. I consider it a gift from God that the first Sunday of my service is that of the Good Shepherd, the fourth of Easter time."Pope Leo XIV then went on to express the joy of "praying with you and with all God's people for vocations, especially those to the priesthood. The Church needs them and it is important that young people find welcome and encouragement in our communities on their vocational journey."He then echoed Pope Francis' invitation to welcome and accompany young people. "To young people I say: do not be afraid, accept the invitation of Christ our Lord."Pope Leo XIV then moved on to the Latin prayer and imparted the blessing."The immense tragedy of the Second World War claimed 60 million victims. As Pope Francis did, I address the powerful of the world: 'Never again war'," he said from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica."I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people. Let everything possible be done to reach an authentic, just and lasting peace as soon as possible. May the prisoners be freed and may the children return to their families".After Ukraine, the Pope also had words for Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian relief for the civilian population and for all hostages to be freed.There was also a mention of the truce between India and Pakistan and then the question: "But how many other conflicts are there in the world?""I entrust this heartfelt appeal to the Queen of Peace so that she may present it to the Lord to grant us the miracle of peace," he continued.The pontiff finished his speech in about a quarter of an hour, greeting "with affection all of you, Romans and pilgrims from various countries." He then wished a "happy feast to all mothers" on this second Sunday in May dedicated to them.