Pope Leo XIV Delivers Powerful First Address
On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Prevost stepped onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as Pope Leo XIV. His first public speech captured global attention and visibly moved the crowd.
A Message of Peace and Unity
He opened with the words, “Peace be with all of you,” stressing its universal power. Calling it a “disarming peace” born from humility and perseverance, he voiced hope that this peace would touch individuals and families everywhere.
Pope Leo XIV honored Pope Francis, saying, “The Pope who blessed Rome, gave his blessing to the entire world that Easter morning. Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail!”
Urging Action and Faith
He urged the faithful to move forward without fear, united in belief. Describing Christ as a light the world still seeks, the pope encouraged building bridges through dialogue and shared action. He reminded listeners that the Church must continue serving those in need.
He also thanked his fellow cardinals for their trust, acknowledged his former diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, and quoted Saint Augustine: “With you I am a Christian and for you I am a bishop.” He called for a Church that stays missionary, open, and close to those who suffer.
Marking a Spiritual Day
The pope ended his address by noting the day of the Supplication to Our Lady of Pompeii. He invited everyone to pray for peace and guidance as he begins his mission.
Online Reactions Pour In
Reactions online came quickly. One viewer wrote, “Goosebumps.” Another commented, “His words brought actual chills… peace and unity are exactly what our world needs right now. I have hope in this new chapter for the Church.”
Some comments saw political undertones. One person remarked, “And sent a message to Trump! 🙏🏼💙✝️” Another chimed in, “He’s talking to you, Donnie!”
Humor and Criticism Appear
Others responded with humor, joking about how long it might take for Trump to try to “fire” the pope. Some drew contrasts between the pope’s call to build bridges and Trump’s past emphasis on building walls, highlighting the clash in values. Yet another voice expressed concern, hoping the pope wouldn’t steer too far into progressive ideas and would still uphold traditional Church teachings.
Highlighting His American Roots
Many noted the historic nature of having an American pope. One commenter mentioned how meaningful it would have been for him to acknowledge his home country during the speech.
Trump Responds
Former President Donald Trump quickly reacted. Posting on the official White House X page, he congratulated Prevost, calling it “a Great Honor for our Country” to see an American elected pope. He added, “I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”
Cardinals gather in Vatican City as the newly elected Pope Leo XIV appears for the first time on the Vatican balcony on May 8, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Leo XIV’s Pre-Election Voice
Even before his election, Pope Leo XIV had stepped into U.S. political conversations. In February 2025, he publicly responded to Vice President JD Vance, posting on his personal X account, “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.” That message, linked to a National Catholic Reporter article, highlighted his focus on inclusive Christian compassion.
A Historic Election
Pope Leo XIV’s first address followed his historic election after the conclave that gathered following Pope Francis’s passing.
On the evening of May 8, the Vatican announced the election, just one day after 133 cardinals began deliberations. Inside, cardinals from 71 countries — many appointed by Pope Francis — gathered in prayerful silence to choose the next leader for the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.
A Moment of Joy
When white smoke rose over the Sistine Chapel, joy swept through St. Peter’s Square. Soon after, the Church confirmed the election with the famous words: “Habemus Papam” — We have a Pope.
At 69, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost became the 267th pontiff and the first American pope. Born in Chicago, he carries a unique blend of pastoral experience and global insight.
A Life of Service
Pope Leo XIV served as a missionary in Trujillo, Peru, for a decade and later led the diocese of Chiclayo from 2014 to 2023. Before his election, he headed a key Vatican office overseeing bishop appointments, playing a crucial role in Pope Francis’s reform efforts.
Looking to the Future
His papacy is widely expected to continue that same vision of renewal and inclusivity.
Among earlier frontrunners were Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy, praised for his diplomatic skill, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, beloved for his humility and connection with the faithful.
A New Chapter for the Church
This moment marks not just a change in leadership but a new chapter filled with hope, faith, and unity for millions around the world.
The Conclave’s First Day
The process began on May 7, when cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel. By 9:00 p.m., black smoke rose, signaling no decision. About 45,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, waiting, though no announcement came for nearly two hours.
Anticipation Builds
The crowd included tourists hoping to witness history and locals who promised to return the next day.
Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania, standing among the faithful, reflected, “Our role here is to pray and to join with other Christians, other Catholics, to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the whole process.”
Nkoronko stressed that a pope’s origin matters less than his spiritual leadership, saying, “What the Church needs is a holy Pope — someone who will guide the Church and be its pastor.”
