On Thursday, May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Prevost stepped onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as Pope Leo XIV, delivering his first address as the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church.
In a speech that resonated far beyond Vatican City, the newly elected pope spoke of peace, unity, and carrying forward the mission of Pope Francis.
He opened with a universal greeting: “Peace be with all of you.” Describing it as a “disarming peace” rooted in humility and perseverance, Pope Leo XIV said he hoped this peace would extend to individuals and families across the world.
Referencing his predecessor, he continued, “The Pope who blessed Rome, gave his blessing to the world, to the entire world, that Easter morning. Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail!”
The new pontiff urged the faithful to move forward without fear, united by faith, and described Christ as a light the world still seeks. He called for the Church to help build bridges — through dialogue, compassion, and action — especially in service to the vulnerable and those in need.
Leo XIV thanked his fellow cardinals for their trust and acknowledged his former diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, where he previously served as bishop. Quoting Saint Augustine, he said, “With you I am a Christian, and for you I am a bishop,” expressing his vision for a Church that is missionary, welcoming, and close to those who suffer.
He concluded by recognizing the Day of Supplication to Our Lady of Pompeii, inviting all to join him in prayer for guidance and global peace as he embarks on his papal mission.
Online Reactions to Pope Leo XIV’s Message
Pope Leo XIV’s first speech drew immediate emotional responses online. One viewer simply commented, “Wow, I have goosebumps.” Another wrote, “This is what the world needs right now”
Some took the moment further, tying the message to current politics. A user wrote, “This is a message for Trump!”, while another added, “He’s talking to you, Donald!” These comments highlighted the contrast between the pope’s call to “build bridges” and former U.S. President Donald Trump’s infamous rhetoric about building walls.
Others debated whether the pope’s tone signaled a more progressive approach. One viewer expressed concern that “this speech was more progressive than expected,” and hoped Leo XIV would still uphold traditional teachings. Another took a lighter approach, joking, “How long until Trump tries to fire the pope?”
There was also reflection on Pope Leo XIV’s American roots. While born in the United States, he now serves a global Church. Some viewers hoped he would still acknowledge his historic background, as the first American-born pope. One commenter noted, “I know he belongs to the world now but a nod to home would have been nice”
Interestingly, Pope Leo XIV had already made waves in U.S. political circles before his election. In February 2025, he responded directly to Vice President JD Vance on X (formerly Twitter), pushing back on the notion of prioritizing who to love. “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others,” he wrote, making headlines for the unusually direct statement.
As the first days of his papacy unfold, Pope Leo XIV is already shaping a message of compassion, courage, and continuity — one that’s resonating in both spiritual and political arenas.
