Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Ukraine, Gaza ceasefire in Sunday appeal
The Hindu
Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Ukraine and Gaza, denounces global conflicts, and wishes all mothers a Happy Mother's Day.
Pope Leo XIV called for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza with the release of hostages and delivery of humanitarian aid in his first Sunday (May 11, 2025) noon blessing as pontiff.
“Never again war!” Pope Leo said from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Recalling the end of World War II 80 years ago, Pope Leo quoted Pope Francis in denouncing the number of conflicts ravaging the globe today, saying it was a “third world war in pieces.”
Pope Leo, the first American pope, also noted that Sunday was Mother’s Day in many countries and wished all mothers, “including those in heaven” a Happy Mother’s Day.
The crowd, filled with marching bands in town for a special Jubilee weekend, erupted in cheers and music as the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica tolled.
Editorial: Hell on earth: On Israel and Gaza
It was the first time that Pope Leo had returned to the loggia since he first appeared to the world from there on Thursday (May 8, 2025) night following his remarkable election as Pope, the first from the United States. Then too he delivered a message of peace.
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