Pope Leo calls for global leaders to choose peace in his first Easter Mass
Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Leaders to Embrace Peace in Easter Address
On Sunday, crowds gathered in St Peter’s Square to witness Pope Leo XIV’s first Easter Mass address as the leader of the Catholic Church. Surrounded by white roses on the Vatican’s central balcony, the pontiff emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize harmony over conflict. “On this day of joy, let us abandon our hunger for strife, control, and power, and ask the Lord to bring peace to a world battered by war,” he proclaimed.
As the first pope born in the United States, Leo has increasingly criticized ongoing global conflicts, particularly the Iran war. In recent speeches, he has urged a reduction in hostilities and encouraged diplomatic resolution. During his “Urbi et Orbi” blessing—meaning “to the city and the world”—he raised his hand to the audience below, a gesture symbolizing his call for unity.
“We have grown used to violence, accepting it as routine, and grown numb to the loss of countless lives,” the pope stated. “Let those with weapons lay them aside. Let those in power choose peace instead of war.”
Awareness of Suffering and Resurrection
Leo’s message drew parallels to the Easter narrative of Christ’s resurrection, three days after his crucifixion. “Jesus remained entirely nonviolent despite suffering,” he noted, urging followers to reflect on this during their celebrations. The basilica was adorned with spring flowers, including daffodils and a vibrant array of purple, red, and white blooms.
Unlike previous Easter addresses, this year’s speech did not specifically mention any nation or conflict. It honored his predecessor, Pope Francis, whose final Easter message was delivered hours before his passing last year. The pope concluded by offering greetings in multiple languages, including Latin, Arabic, and Chinese, as bells echoed through the Vatican.
Advocacy for Reconciliation
Throughout Holy Week, Leo has spoken out against growing global apathy toward war. He highlighted the importance of active reconciliation, urging believers to confront the scale of violence rather than become desensitized to it. In a notable moment, he directly addressed Donald Trump on Tuesday, requesting an “off-ramp” to resolve the Iran conflict.
Planning to return to the basilica on April 11 for a peace prayer vigil, Leo’s Easter address reinforced his commitment to fostering dialogue among world leaders. His words, echoing the central Christian belief in resurrection, aimed to inspire hope and action in a turbulent era.
