Just days after becoming pope, Leo XIV delivered his first Sunday noon blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica with a powerful call for peace. Addressing ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, he echoed Pope Francis’ warning of a “third world war in pieces,” urging swift action for peace, the release of prisoners, and expanded humanitarian aid.
Pope Leo didn’t shy away from controversy, he directly criticized U.S. political figures, including Senator JD Vance, particularly on issues surrounding immigration.
His brother, John Prevost, revealed that Leo had long felt called to the priesthood, recalling a childhood moment when someone predicted he’d one day become pope.
As the first American-born pontiff, Pope Leo XIV brings a deep background in missionary work and Vatican leadership, known especially for his advocacy for the poor and marginalized. Since his election on May 8, 2025, global leaders have welcomed him with praise and optimism, hopeful about future cooperation under his guidance.
