After the Marian prayer of the Regina Caeli, Pope Leo XIV launches a plea for peace in territories affected by wars and violence. He calls for a “just and lasting” peace in Ukraine and the return of children to their families, calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, and hopes for a lasting agreement between India and Pakistan. He then greets the approximately 100,000 people in St. Peter’s Square and remembers all mothers on their dedicated feast day: “A prayer also for those in heaven”
By: Salvatore Cernuzio – Vatican News
Publication Date:
The immense tragedy of the Second World War ended 80 years ago on May 8, after causing 60 million deaths. In today’s dramatic scenario of a fragmented third world war, as Pope Francis has repeatedly stated, I also address the world leaders, reiterating the timeless appeal: “Never again war!”
From that same Loggia, the heart of the facade of St. Peter’s Basilica, four days ago Pope Leo XIV appeared for the first time to the world and pronounced the word “peace” ten times. Today, on his first Regina Caeli on Good Shepherd Sunday, the Pontiff reiterates the same vibrant appeal for peace among all peoples. Peace for territories torn apart by wars, violence, and armed attacks.
Just and lasting peace in Ukraine
In the Pope’s thoughts is first and foremost Ukraine, where expectations are rising for the upcoming Reconstruction Conference in Rome, while on the ground, there is mourning for the deaths of innocents including children (19 in April alone, according to UNICEF).
I carry in my heart the sufferings of the beloved Ukrainian people, let everything possible be done to achieve authentic, just, and lasting peace. Let all prisoners be released and children be able to return to their families
Ceasefire in Gaza
Pope Leo XIV also recalls the tragedy in Gaza. Less than five hours ago, at least ten people, including four minors, were killed in IDF airstrikes that – according to local sources – targeted tents housing displaced persons in various areas of Khan Yunis, south of the Strip. “I am deeply saddened by what is happening in the Gaza Strip,” emphasizes the Pontiff.
Immediately cease the fire! Provide humanitarian aid to the exhausted civilian population and release all hostages
Durable agreement between India and Pakistan
Finally, in the Pope’s words, there is a reference to the recent tensions at the India-Pakistan border. The recent ceasefire agreement to end armed attacks has been shaken by nighttime fire exchanges at the border of the disputed Kashmir region. Leo XIV says he “welcomed with satisfaction” the announcement of the agreement between the two countries, but hopes that “through the upcoming negotiations, a lasting agreement can soon be reached.”
“But how many other conflicts are there in the world!”
With concern for this fragile and uncertain international landscape, the Pope invokes help from the Madonna and blessings from God.
Wishes to all mothers
The Bishop of Rome’s gaze then focuses on the crowd of faithful in St. Peter’s Square: around 100,000 pilgrims, Roman citizens, and tourists gathered hours in advance to witness this ‘first time’ of the newly elected Pontiff. Among them, the numerous musical bands – military, institutional, amateur, folkloric, village, sports, school, and college bands – in Rome since yesterday for their dedicated Jubilee and who paraded along Via della Conciliazione. To all of them, including participants in the National “Choose Life” Event, a greeting “with affection” from the Pope. Then, at the end of the Regina Caeli, wishes to all mothers around the world on the day when their feast is celebrated in Italy and other countries.
I send warm greetings to all mothers, with a prayer for them and for those who are already in Heaven. Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers!
Here, a few moments with hands clasped listening to the applause rising from the square. Before leaving the Loggia, the farewell: “Thank you all, have a good Sunday to everyone!”
