Pope brings glad tidings of peace
THE new Pope is committed to peace-building and global unity, particularly in a time of escalating international tensions.
In his first Sunday address after being elected on May 8th, Pope Leo XIV expressed hope for lasting peace between India and Pakistan.
He specifically welcomed the recent ceasefire between the two nations and expressed his desire for peace to be achieved.
The Pope also called for peace in Ukraine and a ceasefire in Gaza, urging global efforts to end ongoing conflicts.
He emphasized the need for "no more war" and reiterated a call for global peace, echoing sentiments of his predecessor.
He said he was "deeply hurt" by events in Gaza, expressed hope for a "lasting accord" between India and Pakistan, and wished for an "authentic, true and lasting peace" in Ukraine.
Pope Leo XIV, who was formally inaugurated at a mass in St Peter's Square on 18 May, speaking from the central balcony of St Peter's Basilica, said, "The immense tragedy of the Second World War ended 80 years ago… now we're facing the tragedy of a third world war in pieces.
"I would also like to address the powerful people of the world, repeating the always-current call: 'No more war.'"
The pontiff continued, "I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people.
"May whatever is possible be done to reach an authentic, true and lasting peace as quickly as possible. May all the prisoners be freed. May children return to their families.
"And I am deeply hurt by what is happening in the Gaza Strip.
"May a ceasefire immediately come into effect. May humanitarian aid be allowed into the civilian population and may all hostages be freed."
He went on, "I was happy to hear, on the other hand, that there was a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and I hope that through the coming negotiations we might soon come to a lasting accord."
The pontiff, who held his first Mass as Pope in the Sistine Chapel on Friday before speaking to cardinals on Saturday, described himself as an unworthy choice for Pope and vowed to continue the "precious legacy" of his predecessor.
He highlighted the importance of missionary work and discussion, as well as care for those he called the "least and the rejected."
In his first speech, he told the crowds he wanted "to walk together with you as a united Church searching all together for peace and justice."
