Pope Leo XIV’s First Regina Caeli: A Call for Peace and Courage from St. Peter’s

From the iconic balcony of St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural Regina Caeli prayer on Sunday, captivating thousands gathered below. Fresh from a poignant visit to the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, the new pontiff wasted no time in sharing his vision for a world yearning for peace and purpose.

“I felt called to be here, entrusted with this sacred mission as Peter’s successor,” Leo declared, his voice carrying both humility and resolve. His words echoed a deep commitment to guide the Church through turbulent times.

Addressing young Catholics, he issued a heartfelt plea: “Do not shy away from Christ’s call! Embrace the Church’s invitation with courage.” He invoked the Virgin Mary, whose life exemplified unwavering devotion, as a guide for all seeking to follow Jesus.

Yet, it was his impassioned cry for peace that resonated most. “No more war!” he proclaimed, a nod to Pope Francis’ legacy and the somber 80th anniversary of World War II’s end, which claimed 60 million lives. Leo prayed for an “authentic and lasting” peace in Ukraine, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the safe return of hostages held by Hamas. He also expressed gratitude for the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, urging the world to embrace the “miracle of peace.”

In a nod to modern challenges, Leo XIV, a Villanova-educated former missionary, highlighted the risks posed by artificial intelligence to human dignity. Speaking to the College of Cardinals on Saturday, he urged the Church to confront these issues with moral clarity—a bold stance for a pontiff already seen as a unifying figure.

Born Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo’s choice of name ties him to Pope Leo XIII, a champion of social justice. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, his global perspective and inclusive tone signal a papacy ready to bridge divides—though not without stirring debate among some conservative factions.