Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Solidarity and Environmental Care in First Mass

In a historic event at the Vatican on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural Mass, emphasizing the urgent need to end the exploitation of the environment and the marginalization of vulnerable populations.

The Mass, held in the iconic St. Peter’s Square, was attended by tens of thousands of faithful and numerous world leaders, including US Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The 69-year-old pontiff, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, made history as the first American pope. Just ten days after his election, he greeted the crowds from a custom white popemobile, standing and blessing those gathered with a warm smile.

In his homily, Pope Leo XIV spoke candidly about the fractures in today’s society: “In this our time, we still see too much discord, too many wounds caused by hatred, violence, prejudice, the fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the Earth’s resources and marginalises the poorest.”

Drawing from his missionary experience in Peru, he warned against isolationism within faith communities: “We are called to offer God’s love to everyone, to achieve that unity which does not cancel out differences but values the personal history of each person and the social and religious culture of every people.”

Despite being relatively unknown before his elevation, Prevost has already made social justice and peace central themes of his papacy. Pilgrims like 71-year-old Inacia Lisboa from Cape Verde expressed heartfelt support, saying, “Leo had already entered my heart” and asking him to pray for global peace.

The Mass was graced by a broad spectrum of dignitaries, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The United States was represented by Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, both Catholics.

Security was stringent, with thousands of officers deployed, rooftop snipers positioned, and anti-drone measures in place to safeguard the event.

Acknowledging the weight of his new role, Pope Leo XIV said, “I was chosen, without any merit of my own, and now, with fear and trembling, I come to you as a brother who desires to be the servant of your faith and your joy.”

The day’s ceremonies included a visit to the tomb of Saint Peter beneath the basilica and the reception of the pallium and fisherman’s ring, symbols of his papal authority.

As the Church navigates its challenges, Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass signals a renewed commitment to unity, compassion, and care for the planet.