Thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square on Sunday as Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Easter Mass as pope.
Speaking from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, he urged world leaders to choose peace over war. He called on those with the power to start conflicts to “lay down their weapons” and help bring peace to a world affected by violence.
During his “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, the pope warned that people are becoming too used to war and suffering. He encouraged others not to become indifferent and to work toward reconciliation.
Pope Leo XIV also honoured his predecessor, Pope Francis, and reflected on the message of Easter, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the importance of peace and nonviolence.
The Easter Mass featured flowers and celebrations, and the pope ended by wishing people a happy Easter in several languages.
