Pope Leo XIV calls for courage and peace in first address
On Sunday morning, Pope Leo XIV conducted a private Mass at the tomb of St. Peter in the Vatican Grottoes, after which he prayed silently at the tombs of his predecessors. In his homily, he spoke about the Good Shepherd, the courage of faith, and the importance of listening.
Later, Pope Leo XIV visited the Vatican Grottoes, where he celebrated a private Mass near the tomb of Saint Peter. After the liturgy, he spent time in silent prayer at the tombs of former popes.
Leo XIV: courage! do not be afraid!
In the homily, which he delivered first in English and then in Italian, the Holy Father referred to the Gospel of the day, reflecting on the parable of the Good Shepherd. He also spoke about the universal call to proclaim the Gospel and urged the faithful to have courage: Courage! Do not be afraid!
The Pope admitted that the mission of preaching may involve sacrifice, but emphasized the key importance of the ability to listen – to both God and others. Listening allows us to engage in true dialogue – he emphasized, calling it the foundation of "building bridges."
The Holy Father noted that listening should not lead to judgment or shutting oneself off from others. – We cannot close doors, as if we possess the whole truth and others have nothing to offer, – the Pope said.
This humble attitude should lead to better discernment of where God is calling us.
A clear declaration from the new pope on Ukraine
Earlier, Pope Leo XIV appeared for the first time on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, leading the Regina Coeli prayer. He also spoke out unequivocally about the war in Ukraine. - I appeal to the great leaders of the world. No more war, - the new Pope said. He also mentioned the "beloved Ukrainian people."
