Pope Leo XIV has called on world leaders to choose peace over conflict during his first Easter Mass as pontiff, delivering a powerful message to thousands gathered at St Peter’s Square.
The historic address drew large crowds to the Vatican, where worshippers filled the square to hear the first US-born pope deliver his Easter message. Standing on the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, framed by white roses and spring decorations, the pontiff urged those in positions of power to turn away from war.
“On this day of celebration, let us abandon every desire for conflict, domination and power,” he said. “Let those who have the power to unleash wars choose peace.”
The pope’s message comes at a time of heightened global tensions, including ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Although he did not directly mention specific countries or wars, his remarks were widely seen as a reflection of current geopolitical crises.
Since assuming the papacy, Pope Leo XIV has emerged as a vocal advocate for peace, frequently criticising war and calling for de-escalation. He has spoken out in particular against the ongoing conflict involving Iran, urging global leaders to seek diplomatic solutions rather than military confrontation.
During the Easter Mass, the pontiff warned against what he described as a growing global indifference to violence and human suffering. He said many people were becoming “accustomed to violence” and increasingly detached from the reality of lives lost in conflicts around the world.
“We are becoming indifferent to the deaths of thousands,” he said, urging both leaders and ordinary citizens to reject apathy and actively work towards peace and reconciliation.
The pope also reflected on the significance of Easter, the most important event in the Christian calendar, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He described Christ as “entirely nonviolent” in the face of suffering, using the story as a moral example for modern society.
Following his address, Pope Leo XIV delivered the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing—Latin for “to the city and the world”—offering Easter greetings in multiple languages, including Latin, Arabic and Chinese. The moment was met with applause as bells rang out across Vatican City.
The ceremony was marked by vibrant displays of flowers, with thousands of blooms—including daffodils and arrangements in purple, red and white—decorating the square and basilica, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
In a break from recent tradition, the pope avoided naming specific conflicts or political actors in his speech. However, his broader message underscored the urgency of addressing global instability and the human cost of war.
He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who delivered his final Easter address last year shortly before his death. The acknowledgment highlighted continuity in the Church’s message of peace and compassion.
Looking ahead, Pope Leo XIV announced plans to hold a prayer vigil for peace on 11 April, further reinforcing his commitment to promoting dialogue and reconciliation during his early days as pontiff.
In recent weeks, the pope has used multiple public appearances during Holy Week to stress the importance of confronting global conflicts. In one notable appeal, he directly urged Donald Trump to seek a pathway to de-escalate tensions with Iran.
As global conflicts continue to dominate international headlines, Pope Leo XIV’s first Easter message sets a clear tone for his papacy one centred on peace, moral responsibility, and a renewed call for unity in a divided world.
