In a powerful inaugural mass held at the Vatican, the newly elected Pope Leo XIV emphasized the urgent need for the Catholic Church to combat the growing lack of faith among believers. This call to action came just one day after his election as the first American leader of the Church, drawing attention from over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
During his address on Friday, Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, expressed concern that many individuals are increasingly turning to technology, money, success, power, and pleasure for security rather than seeking solace within the Church. "A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life," he stated, highlighting the pressing issues of human dignity, family crises, and the myriad wounds affecting society today.
Pope Leo XIV urged the cardinals to broaden their missionary outreach, aiming to transform the Church into a beacon of hope. As he spoke in Italian to the assembled cardinals at the Sistine Chapel, he wore a striking white robe trimmed in gold, symbolizing the dignity and tradition of the papacy.
The announcement of Prevost as Pope Leo XIV was met with jubilant celebrations, particularly in Peru, where he had served for two decades. His introduction to the world in St. Peter's Square on Thursday evening was marked by enthusiastic cheers and support from thousands of worshippers. His first words as pope outlined a vision for a missionary Church that fosters dialogue, builds bridges, and promotes peace among all people.
In his remarks, Pope Leo XIV echoed the sentiments of his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, calling for peace and unity. "Help us, and each other, to build bridges through dialogue, through encounter, to come together as one people, always in peace," he urged, reinforcing the Church's commitment to addressing global issues.
Pope Leo XIV’s election has drawn widespread recognition from world leaders. US President Donald Trump hailed it as a "great honor" to have the first American pope, reflecting the significance of this historic moment. Notably, Prevost, who also holds Peruvian citizenship, rose to prominence within the Church, being named an archbishop and then cardinal only in 2023.
Following a brief two-day voting period in a secret conclave, Pope Leo XIV was elected as the new leader, seen as a continuation of the progressive legacy of Pope Francis. Vatican analysts suggest that Francis may have strategically introduced Prevost to Rome as a potential successor, positioning him to embrace the challenges of the modern world.
As Pope Leo XIV prepares for his upcoming public addresses, including Sunday’s midday Regina Coeli prayer and a press conference with journalists on Monday, the global community will be keenly observing for insights into his vision for the Catholic Church and the direction in which he intends to lead this venerable institution.
