Pope Leo XIV celebrated the prayer of Regina Coeli in Saint-Pierre for the first time on Sunday in front of the faithful.
There were around 150,000 people in the place, with heavy safety measures in place since morning. The pontiff made his debut of the central loggia of the basilica with a “good Sunday”, then started prayer among the applause of the faithful.
Judging by attendance and applause, the affection of the faithful of Pope Leo XIV seems to grow day by day.
The pope spoke, often interrupted by the choirs of the faithful. “Dear brothers and sisters, happy Sunday. I consider that it is a gift from God that the first Sunday of my service is that of the good shepherd, the fourth at Easter.”
Pope Leo XIV then expressed the joy of “praying with you and with all the people of God for vocations, especially those of the priesthood. The church needs it and it is important that young people find reception and encouragement in our communities in their professional trip.”
He then echoed the invitation of Pope Francis to welcome and support young people. “To young people, I say: Do not be afraid, accept the invitation of Christ Our Lord.”
Pope Leo XIV then went to Latin prayer and conferred the blessing.
“The immense tragedy of the Second World War claimed 60 million victims. As Pope Francis did, I take care of the powerful of the world:” Never Again War “,” he said from the Balcony of the Saint-Pierre Basilica.
“I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people. That everything is done to reach an authentic, fair and lasting peace as soon as possible. Let the prisoners be released and that children return to their families”.
After Ukraine, the Pope also had words for Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian relief for the civilian population and the release of all hostages.
There was also a mention of the truce between India and Pakistan, then the question: “But how many other conflicts are there in the world?”
“I dispute this sincere call to the Queen of Peace so that she can present it to the Lord to grant us the miracle of peace,” he continued.
The pontiff ended his speech in about a quarter of an hour, welcoming “with affection all, Romans and pilgrims from various countries”. He then wanted a “happy party to all mothers” this second Sunday in May, dedicated to them.
Editor • Rory Elliott Armstrong
