Pope Leo XIV Calls for End to War in First Sunday Blessing as Pontiff

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope since 1403, reminded gathered faithful of the need for peace during his historic return to St. Peter’s Square as the new pope on his first Sunday in Rome. Speaking at a crowd of tens of thousands, he called for an end to war, referencing almost 80 years since World War II ended and quoting Pope Francis about what some saw as "a third world war." The election of Leo, who served only two days before taking the papacy on Nov. 21, has been closely watched by Vatican officials as he prepares his leadership plans. During his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel, he emphasized aligning with ordinary people and addressing global violence.