Vatican City:
Upon his election as the new pope and leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural address from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Here is the full text of his first speech:
“Peace be with all of you!
Dear brothers and sisters, I echo the greeting of the Risen Christ, the good shepherd who laid down his life for the flock of God. May this message of peace resonate in your hearts, in your homes, among all people, in all nations, and throughout the world. Peace be with you!
This peace, emanating from the Risen Christ, is a peace that is unarmed, humble, and enduring. It is a peace that stems from the unconditional love of God for all of us. We still hear the resolute voice of Pope Francis, who blessed Rome with courage!
On that Easter morning, the Pope’s blessing extended to the entire world.
Allow me to extend that same blessing: God watches over us, God loves us all, and evil will not triumph! We are in the hands of God. Therefore, let us move forward without fear, united with God and with one another, as disciples of Christ. Christ leads the way for us. The world needs His light, humanity needs Him as the bridge to God and His love.
Let us, then, help each other build bridges through dialogue, encounter, and unity, striving to be a people of peace. Thank you, Pope Francis!
I express my gratitude to all the cardinals who have chosen me as the Successor of Peter, to walk together as a united Church in pursuit of peace and justice, faithfully proclaiming the Gospel as missionaries without fear.
As a follower of Saint Augustine, an Augustinian, who declared, “With you I am a Christian and for you a bishop,” let us journey together towards the heavenly homeland prepared by God.
To the Church of Rome, I extend a special greeting! Let us work together to be a missionary Church, fostering dialogue and building bridges, always open to welcome all with open arms – those in need of our charity, presence, dialogue, and love.
(Switching to Spanish) I also send greetings to my beloved diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, where a faithful community has supported their bishop, shared their faith, and contributed greatly to being a faithful Church of Jesus Christ.
(Switching back to Italian) To all of you, brothers and sisters in Rome, Italy, and around the world, let us strive to be a synodal Church, a Church in motion, continuously seeking peace, charity, and closeness to those in need.
Today, as we observe the Supplication to Our Lady of Pompeii, may our Mother Mary walk with us, stand by us, and assist us through her intercession and love.
Let us pray together for this new journey, for the entire Church, for global peace, and let us seek the special grace of Mary, our Mother.”
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