As the sun rose over Vatican City, thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square not only to witness the first general audience of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate but also to hear a heartfelt plea for peace in one of the world’s most troubled regions.
In his debut public address, the new pope didn’t shy away from addressing the escalating crisis in Gaza, urging an immediate end to violence and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid.
Pope Leo XIV’s Urgent Appeal for Gaza
Standing before a sea of hopeful faces on an overcast morning, Pope Leo XIV described the situation in Gaza as “increasingly worrying and painful.”
His words carried a deep sense of urgency: “I renew my heartfelt appeal to allow the entry of decent humanitarian aid and to end the hostilities whose heartbreaking price is paid by children, the elderly, and the sick.”
The pope’s statement comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, where casualties continue to mount.
While some aid has reached the region, reports suggest it hasn’t yet been distributed widely to those in desperate need.
Honoring Pope Francis One Month After His Passing
In this poignant moment, Pope Leo also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away exactly one month prior.
He spoke with gratitude about the late pope’s legacy, recalling Francis as a beloved spiritual leader who had recently “returned to the house of the Father.”
A Warm Welcome and Blessings in St. Peter’s Square
Before delivering his message, Pope Leo XIV made a memorable entrance, cruising through the square in the popemobile to waves, cheers, and vibrant banners.
He paused frequently to bless babies and young children lifted up to him, creating a tender connection with the crowd.
Reflecting on the Parable of the Sower
The pope’s teaching during this first audience centered on hope, inspired by the parable of the sower.
He reflected on the story’s surprising detail — the sower spreading seeds indiscriminately on all kinds of ground, even where growth seems unlikely.
“This way of scattering seeds reflects God’s love for us,” Pope Leo explained.
“God gives us his Word generously, trusting that, in time, it will blossom.
It’s not about waiting to be perfect soil, but about the trust God places in us.”
God’s Generosity and the Promise of Transformation
Pope Leo emphasized that this message offers hope rooted in God’s mercy.
He reminded listeners that Jesus, as the seed, must “die” to bear fruit — symbolizing God’s willingness to give everything for our transformation.
Real Stories from the Crowd
Among those attending was Chuma Asuzu, a Nigerian-born father living in Canada, who brought his family to hear the new pope.
He shared, “It was moving how he spoke about the seeds and the Word of God.
You could feel his sincerity, especially as he looked emotional in his first audience.”
Art Inspires a Deeper Meditation on Hope
Rather than drawing on traditional texts, Pope Leo brought Vincent Van Gogh’s painting “The Sower at Sunset” into the conversation, using it as a vivid image of hope and perseverance.
He noted how the sun dominates the painting — a reminder that even if God seems distant, He is the ultimate force nurturing growth and change.
Final Thoughts and Blessings
Closing the audience, the pope encouraged everyone to open their hearts to God’s Word and not be discouraged if they feel like “unfruitful soil.”
He led the crowd in the “Our Father” prayer in Latin and gave his apostolic blessing.
Pilgrims from Around the World Share Their Impressions
Pilgrims from across the globe were visibly moved by Pope Leo’s message.
Father Rolmart Verano from the Philippines described the experience as a dream come true and praised the pope’s call for the Word of God to guide daily life, no matter the circumstances.
Similarly, Sandesh Almeida from India, attending with a group from Mumbai, appreciated the pope’s focus on peace — especially significant given tensions in the region.