In his first mass, Pope Leo XIV addressed the need for the Catholic Church to act as a "beacon" amid a crisis of faith, encouraging outreach and a return to spiritual values over materialism.
Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Faith in First Mass as Pontiff
Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Faith in First Mass as Pontiff
The new pope urges the Catholic Church to tackle dwindling faith during his inaugural mass in Vatican City.
In a powerful first mass held at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV has called upon the Catholic Church to address the growing concern over dwindling faith among believers. Speaking shortly after his election as the first American pope, the Chicago-born cleric emphasized the Church's role as a guiding light in a world where many turn to "technology, money, success, power, or pleasure" for refuge.
During the mass on Friday, which was broadcast live, the newly appointed Pontiff urged cardinals to broaden their missionary outreach. "A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by a loss of meaning in life, the neglect of mercy, appalling violations of human dignity, the crisis of the family, and many other wounds that afflict our society," he remarked in Italian.
Prevost, age 69, is widely celebrated across the 1.4 billion strong Catholic community, with enthusiastic reactions noted particularly in Peru, where he served for two decades. Wearing a white robe adorned with gold, he addressed the cardinals in the Sistine Chapel and spoke of his commitment to being a "faithful administrator" of the Church, aiming to reach out to those experiencing a spiritual deficit.
Emerging onto the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo shared a vision for a "missionary" Church that focuses on building connections and engaging in dialogue, echoing the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis. He appealed for unity, urging the faithful to aspire towards peace and collaboration for the greater good.
Welcoming congratulations from global leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Pope Leo XIV's election is viewed as a significant moment in the Church's journey. His rise to leadership, following merely two days of voting by his peers in the secluded conclave two weeks after Pope Francis' passing, showcases his relatively rapid ascension from becoming an archbishop and cardinal just this year.
As observers anticipate his upcoming remarks, including the Regina Coeli prayer and a press conference scheduled for Monday, the focus will be on the direction he intends to steer the Church and his vision for its future amidst contemporary challenges.
