Pope Leo XIV issues global call for peace in first Easter Urbi et Orbi
In his first Easter Sunday service as Sovereign Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV issued a decisive appeal for the cessation of global conflicts.
Addressing the faithful with the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing from the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, the Pope urged those in power to choose reconciliation. "Let those with arms lay them down! Let those with the power to ignite wars choose peace!" he declared.
A message of dialogue over force
According to the Catholic portal Vatican News, the Pontiff emphasized that peace must be achieved through encounter rather than domination. Approximately 50,000 pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square to hear his message.
The Pope warned against a growing societal indifference toward violence. He noted that people are becoming accustomed to the death of thousands and the deep-seated hatred generated by modern conflicts.
Breaking with recent tradition
"We cannot remain indifferent! And we cannot reconcile ourselves with evil!" the Pontiff proclaimed. His address focused on universal themes of peace rather than mentioning specific geopolitical conflicts.
In a notable shift, Pope Leo XIV greeted the world in 10 languages, including Arabic, Chinese, and Latin. This move revives a traditional practice that had been set aside by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
