Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, delivered his first homily in the Sistine Chapel on May 9, 2025, to the College of Cardinals. The homily, delivered in English and Italian, emphasized the Church's mission and the importance of announcing the Gospel. The Pope reflected on God's blessings and highlighted Jesus as the Christ. Prior to the homily, the Pope gave his first 'urbi et orbi' blessing on May 8, 2025, focusing on peace, love, and unity. He expressed gratitude to the cardinals and encouraged building bridges and dialogue.
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Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born Pope, delivered his first homily at a Mass with the Cardinal Electors in the Sistine Chapel on May 9, 2025 1. Following his election, he also gave his first 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing 6. These first addresses set the tone for his papacy.
Pope Leo XIV's homily centered on the Church's mission to proclaim the Gospel in a world often indifferent or hostile to faith 1 3 4. He emphasized the importance of personal conversion and fidelity to Christ, echoing Peter's profession of faith: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" 1 3 5. The Pope called on the Church to be a beacon of light and an "ark of salvation" 1. He acknowledged the challenges of preaching the Gospel in a world that often values technology, money, and power over faith 1 3 4.
In his first 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing, Pope Leo XIV conveyed a message of peace and unity 6. He echoed the greeting of the Risen Christ, "Peace be with you all!" and expressed his desire for this peace to reach all people and nations 6. The Pope emphasized God's unconditional love and called for building bridges through dialogue and encounter 6. He also acknowledged his Augustinian background, stating, "For you I am a bishop, with you, I am a Christian," highlighting the importance of walking together towards God 6.
Pope Leo XIV's first homily and 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing provide insight into his vision for the Church. His emphasis on evangelization, personal holiness, and unity suggests a papacy focused on strengthening the faith within the Church and reaching out to the world with a message of hope and peace 1 6. His background as an American and a former missionary in Peru also brings a unique perspective to his role as the leader of the Catholic Church 6.
I am unable to provide information about Pope Leo XIV, as the last Pope was Leo XIII.