Pope Leo XIV has celebrated his first Mass as pontiff, just a day after his historic election, addressing cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel with a powerful message of renewal, mission, and faith.
Born Robert Prevost in Chicago, the newly elected Pope is the first North American to assume the papacy. His appointment has already drawn global attention, with US President Donald Trump calling it a “great honour” for the United States.
In his homily, Pope Leo XIV expressed his hope that his leadership would guide the Catholic Church in bringing light to what he called the “dark nights of this world.” Addressing the cardinals, he said, “You have called me to be blessed with the mission of leading the Church… I know I can rely on each and every one of you to walk with me.”
The new pontiff outlined a clear vision for the Church’s direction, emphasising the urgent need for outreach in areas where faith is fading. “Even today, there are many settings in which the Christian faith is considered absurd, meant for the weak and unintelligent,” he said, pointing to societies where “technology, money, success, power or pleasure” dominate. He urged the Church to redouble its efforts in these places, calling them “where our missionary outreach is desperately needed.”
Pope Leo XIV also affirmed his commitment to being a “faithful administrator” for the global Church, encouraging his fellow Church leaders to walk with him in unity as “a community of friends of Jesus” and to boldly proclaim the Gospel.
His election marks a new chapter in the Catholic Church’s history, with many around the world watching to see how the first pope from North America will shape its future.
Melissa Enoch
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