After his election, Pope Leo XIV connects with the faithful, emphasizing unity and love.
Pope Leo XIV Addresses the Faithful in First Blessing After Election

Pope Leo XIV Addresses the Faithful in First Blessing After Election
Historic First Address by Pope Leo XIV during Regina Caeli Prayer
Pope Leo XIV is set to lead his inaugural Sunday blessing and address today before the faithful in St Peter's Square at the Vatican. As part of a traditional observance, he will recite the Regina Caeli prayer honoring the Virgin Mary, marking his first official communication since the announcement of his papal election. After the service, the new pope will address the congregation present in the square, sharing his reflections and blessings.
The newly elected pope was chosen on Thursday following a focused conclave lasting two days. Last Friday, he conducted his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel, and on Saturday, met with cardinals, where he humbly referred to himself as "unworthy" of the papacy. During this meeting, he expressed his commitment to uphold the vital legacy left by his predecessor, addressing the importance of missionary work, charity, and advocate for the marginalized.
Pope Leo XIV selected his name in homage to a 19th-century pontiff celebrated for his teachings on social justice. He discussed the relevance of the church's role in advocating for human dignity in the current era marked by rapid advancements such as artificial intelligence. Looking ahead, he is scheduled to meet with media representatives on Monday before his formal inauguration next week on 18 May, where he will deliver a homily in front of various state leaders and dignitaries.
At 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV holds the distinction of being the 267th pope and the first American to ascend to this office. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, he dedicated numerous years to missionary work in Peru, later becoming an archbishop. This makes him the second pope hailing from the Americas, following Pope Francis from Argentina.
Characterized as a moderate, Pope Leo XIV is expected to provide continuity and unity to the church following the recent loss of his predecessor. He aims to foster a collaborative spirit among believers, voicing his desire “to walk together” with them as members of a unified church striving for peace and justice.
The newly elected pope was chosen on Thursday following a focused conclave lasting two days. Last Friday, he conducted his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel, and on Saturday, met with cardinals, where he humbly referred to himself as "unworthy" of the papacy. During this meeting, he expressed his commitment to uphold the vital legacy left by his predecessor, addressing the importance of missionary work, charity, and advocate for the marginalized.
Pope Leo XIV selected his name in homage to a 19th-century pontiff celebrated for his teachings on social justice. He discussed the relevance of the church's role in advocating for human dignity in the current era marked by rapid advancements such as artificial intelligence. Looking ahead, he is scheduled to meet with media representatives on Monday before his formal inauguration next week on 18 May, where he will deliver a homily in front of various state leaders and dignitaries.
At 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV holds the distinction of being the 267th pope and the first American to ascend to this office. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, he dedicated numerous years to missionary work in Peru, later becoming an archbishop. This makes him the second pope hailing from the Americas, following Pope Francis from Argentina.
Characterized as a moderate, Pope Leo XIV is expected to provide continuity and unity to the church following the recent loss of his predecessor. He aims to foster a collaborative spirit among believers, voicing his desire “to walk together” with them as members of a unified church striving for peace and justice.