In brief
Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Easter Mass in St. Peter's Square, emphasizing the urgent need for peace in a world plagued by wars. He called on those in power to choose harmony over conflict, reflecting on the growing indifference towards violence and the necessity to respect life. His message resonated with the themes of Easter, embodying hope and the call for reconciliation amidst global challenges.
Thousands of worshippers flocked to St Peter's Square on Sunday to hear Pope Leo XIV deliver his first Easter Mass address as pontiff.
Framed by white roses on the central balcony of the Vatican's basilica, the pope called on those who have the power to unleash wars to choose peace.
On this day of celebration, let us abandon every desire for conflict, domination and power, and implore the Lord to grant his peace to a world ravaged by wars, he said.
The first US-born pope has become a vocal critic of the Iran war, and has used recent public addresses to denounce global conflicts and urge de-escalation.
Pope Leo waved to the crowd gathered in the square below before delivering his Urbi et Orbi blessing - Latin for to the city and the world.
St Peter's Square was decorated with bright spring blooms, with rows of daffodils and thousands of purple, red and white flowers arranged for the Easter Mass.
As bells rang out across the Vatican and the crowd applauded, Leo concluded his blessing by offering Easter greetings in several languages, including Latin, Arabic and Chinese.
The pope also announced that he would return to the basilica on 11 April to lead a prayer vigil for peace.
Leo has repeatedly denounced ongoing global conflicts in recent weeks, warning against indifference towards war and advocating for active reconciliation among nations.
