Three Key Insights From Pope Leo XIV's Inaugural Address

In his inaugural appearance on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, the newly elected Pope Leo XIV provided the world a peek at his probable focuses as the head of the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church .

Leo, formerly US Cardinal Robert Prevost, becomes the first pope from the United States, while also holding Peruvian citizenship.

His many years of missionary work in Peru came before he was made a cardinal and followed. Pope Francis, who died last month.

The newly elected pontiff's selection of his papal name, typically a strong hint at their future objectives, offers the initial insight.

Remembering how Pope Francis chose his name after the 13th-century Saint Francis of Assisi, who was an advocate for the poor, the choice of Leo XIV brings to mind the enduring influence of Leo XIII.

The latter, who led the Church from 1878 to 1903, notably championed workers' rights, advocating for fair wages, decent working conditions, and the right to unionise.

“By choosing the name Leo XIV, he demonstrates his commitment to the Church’s social teachings,” stated Rev. Thomas Reese, a close observer of the papacy and a Jesuit commentator.

The second hint from Leo was evident in both the language he chose and the specific words he used, underscoring the importance of peace—a theme frequently highlighted by Francis as well.

None of his speech to the crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square was in English, but rather Italian, the language of the papacy, and a brief foray into Spanish to greet his former community in Peru. He did not mention the U.S.

"May peace be upon all of you!" (Pace sia con tutti voi!) were Leo’s inaugural words in his public address. These words resonate with those used during Catholic festivities, yet they also conveyed an instant message of tranquility in a world marred by discord.

Before heading into the secret conclave On May 7, the global cardinals released a statement expressing sorrow over the conflicts "occurring in Ukraine, the Middle East, and numerous other regions across the globe," and they earnestly appealed for peace.

The newly appointed Pope expressed his desire to share God In peace, describing it as "a peaceful disarmament and an enchanting calm" that remains "modest and steadfast."

Leo additionally noted Francis, who extended his final blessings to the crowd in Rome on Easter Sunday. He passed away from a stroke the very next day, following a prolonged battle with double pneumonia.

He remarked, 'We still hear that frail yet consistently brave voice of Pope Francis in our ears.'

Leo sought approval to recite the same blessing that Francis had uttered mere weeks prior, stating: "God loves us all, including every person, and wickedness shall not triumph. We are under God’s care."

Leo's third hint was evident in how he dressed.

In contrast to Francis, who rejected all signs of the papacy, even on his first day as pope in 2013, Leo chose to wear a conventional red papal vestment over his white cassock.

Even though Leo adheres to the traditions established by Francis, he indicated that he is a distinct and innovative pontiff.

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