Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Gaza and Ukraine, saying 'Never again war'

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Andrew Medichini/AP ROME — Pope Leo XIV referred to as for a ceasefire in Gaza and an finish to the warfare in Ukraine on Sunday, in his first Sunday midday blessing as pontiff since his election. He spoke from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica.

"I'm deeply pained by what is going on," stated Leo, referring to the warfare in Gaza. "Let the preventing stop instantly, let humanitarian assist be supplied to the exhausted civilian inhabitants, and should all hostages be launched."

Leo additionally talked concerning the warfare in Ukraine, saying, "I carry in my coronary heart the struggling of the beloved Ukrainian individuals." He urged that, "each effort be made to achieve a real, simply and lasting peace as quickly as attainable."

And he quoted Pope Francis saying that the worldwide conflicts affecting so many individuals world wide equate to a "third world warfare in items."

"In right now's dramatic context of a 3rd world warfare fought piecemeal … I too enchantment to the highly effective of the world by repeating these ever-relevant phrases: by no means once more warfare!" he stated.

Leo welcomed the announcement of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and stated he hopes there is usually a lasting settlement.

These phrases got here as many internationally are simply attending to know the brand new pontiff, and are desperate to see what points shall be on the forefront of his papacy.

On Thursday, Leo was elected 267th pope, following the demise of Francis final month. The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary, who attended Villanova College in Pennsylvania, is the primary pope from the US. He beforehand spent a few years as a missionary, pastor bishop and archbishop in Peru.

The brand new pope's remarks got here after the Regina Caeli (Queen of Heaven) prayer. It's usually recited by popes, however was sung by Pope Leo.

Carrying the straightforward white cassock of the papacy and his silver pectoral cross, Pope Leo additionally famous that this Sunday is Mom's Day in lots of international locations, and wished all moms, "together with these in heaven" a Pleased Mom's Day.

He ended with a "heartfelt enchantment" to Mary Queen of Peace, "in order that she could current it to the Lord Jesus and acquire for us the miracle of peace."