Pope Leo XIV's First Mass: A Call to Support the Marginalized

In his inaugural Mass as Pope Leo XIV, the American-born pontiff committed to "missionary outreach" for healing societal wounds and positioned himself as an advocate for ordinary people, hinting at the challenging decisions ahead for the Church.

In a significant moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass on May 9, 2025, addressing cardinals and emphasizing the importance of outreach to "ordinary people." The pontiff, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago and now the first American pope, called for a renewed focus on healing societal wounds through missionary work.

Gathered in the ornate setting of the Sistine Chapel, Leo XIV's homily underscored a commitment to those marginalized and afflicted by hardship, making a poignant critique of socio-economic disparities that he believes stem from a loss of faith. Echoing the sentiments of his predecessor, Pope Francis, he urged a collective mission to reinforce human dignity and tackle the urgent issues that divide society.

During the Mass, Leo XIV expressed that religious faith is integral to addressing "appalling violations of human dignity" witnessed globally. He stated that it is crucial for the Church to guide believers in a way that matches contemporary societal challenges. The Pope pointed to the indifference of the rich and powerful, framing a narrative that aligns the Church with the struggles of the common man.

The new pontiff's advocacy of a "missionary church" seeks to confront the pressing reality of faith's diminishing influence in many areas of life, notably through the acknowledgment of external forces like media and technology that often overshadow spiritual values. He articulated his aspiration to cultivate deeper connections between the Church and the people it serves.

Looking ahead, Pope Leo XIV faces pressing questions regarding his approach to evolving issues within the Church. His personal journey from a missionary in Peru to the Vatican's highest office hints at a leader who values grassroots involvement alongside ecclesiastical hierarchy. The coming weeks will reveal how he plans to harmonize these experiences within the broader narrative of Catholicism today, especially as he prepares for his formal inauguration on May 18.

As Pope Leo XIV embarks on this new chapter, his resolve to be a voice for the unheard will undoubtedly shape his papacy, reflecting a blend of tradition and modernity, as he strives to guide the Church in a challenging global landscape.