At the beginning of his Petrine ministry, Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude and hope in his homily during the inauguration Mass. He remembered the sadness that followed the death of Pope Francis but said the light of Easter gave people comfort and reminded them that God never leaves his people.
Pope Leo said the cardinals prayed deeply before choosing a new Pope. They came from many countries and walks of life, but they were united by faith and guided by the Holy Spirit. He said he felt unworthy of being chosen, but he wants to serve everyone with love and joy.
He reminded everyone of two key parts of being a Christian: love and unity. These, he said, are the foundation of Peter’s mission given by Jesus – to care for others and bring them together.
Pope Leo spoke about a story from the Gospel, when Jesus spoke to Peter by the Sea of Galilee. Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me?” and gave him the task of caring for his people. Pope Leo explained that Peter could only do this because he had experienced God’s deep and unconditional love, even after his own failings.
He said the Pope’s job is not to rule with power or force, but to serve others with the same kind of love Jesus showed. He stressed that Church leaders should never act like bosses but should walk alongside people in friendship and kindness.
Highlight of Mass for the Inauguration of the Petrine Ministry of the Bishop of Rome
The Pope called for a united Church – one that brings people together and works for peace in the world. He said there is still too much hate, violence, and division. Instead, the Church should be a small example of unity and friendship that inspires others.
He also spoke about working with other Christian churches, other religions, and even those who are still searching for God. He said we should respect different cultures and personal stories, and share God’s love with all people.
“This is the missionary spirit that must animate us; not closing ourselves off in our small groups, nor feeling superior to the world. We are called to offer God’s love to everyone, in order 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.” Pope Leo
Pope Leo ended his homily by saying, “This is the hour for love.” He said the heart of Christianity is God’s love, which makes us all brothers and sisters. He encouraged everyone to build a Church that is open, welcoming, and full of love for the world.
