During his first Mass as the new Pope, Leo XIV, an American-born pontiff, expressed a heartfelt commitment to supporting “ordinary people” and addressing the wounds afflicting society. The Mass took place in the Sistine Chapel, attended by cardinals from around the world.
In his homily, Leo XIV lamented the loss of faith contributing to ongoing violations of human dignity. He urged the Church to embrace "missionary outreach" to heal societal rifts, drawing parallels with Jesus, who resonated more with the masses than the elite.
The first American pope emphasized a need to engage with contemporary issues, addressing the gap between faith and everyday life. He reminded cardinals of their missionary role, encouraging them to be humble servants to the faithful.
This inaugural Mass, rich with theological references, aims to follow the progressive path laid by his predecessor, Pope Francis, signaling a continuity of pastoral care focused on the marginalized.
Cardinals see Leo XIV as a unifying figure, poised to lead the Church in critical times, reaffirming its social mission amidst ongoing challenges like the crisis of family values and rising secularism. His tenure starts with promises of deeper connections to the Church's global community and dedication to humane values.
