• Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
• The pope addresses 100,000 attendees, echoing the phrase 'never again war.'
• Symbolic gestures highlight unity in a divided Catholic Church.
• Pope Leo wishes a Happy Mother's Day to mothers worldwide.
• He emphasizes humanitarian aid and the release of hostages.

Pope Leo XIV, in his inaugural Sunday noon blessing, called for a "just and lasting peace" in Ukraine and urged for an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza to allow humanitarian aid and the release of hostages. “I too address the world's great powers by repeating the ever-present call 'never again war,’” he proclaimed from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, addressing a crowd of around 100,000 people below. This marks a significant moment as Leo is the first pope from the United States, taking up the papal tradition after his election last Thursday, according to CBS News, NPR, and Los Angeles Times.

During his first public appearance, Pope Leo adopted a novel approach by standing at the center of St. Peter's Square rather than from the traditional window of the Apostolic Palace, embracing a more personal connection with the crowd. Notably, he sang the Regina Caeli prayer, a departure from recent popes who typically recited it. This reflects a desire to bridge divisions within the Catholic Church, as noted by various observers, including conservative commentators who appreciate his return to traditional practices, according to Africanews and South China Morning Post.

Pope Leo highlighted the urgency of the situation for both Ukraine and Gaza, expressing deep empathy for those suffering from the conflicts. He echoed the sentiments of Pope Francis, declaring the global strife to be a "third world war in pieces." His message underscored the importance of humanitarian aid, calling for the release of Ukrainian war prisoners, the return of children to their families, and aid for the "exhausted civilian population" in Gaza, urging that all hostages be freed. Moreover, he acknowledged Mother’s Day internationally, extending heartfelt wishes to mothers, "including those in heaven," according to Africanews, Los Angeles Times, and South China Morning Post.

The atmosphere in St. Peter's Square was celebratory, filled with cheers and music, as marching bands performed. Pope Leo's call for unity resonated, especially among those who traveled long distances to witness this pivotal moment in history. Reports highlighted the presence of diverse groups, including American pilgrims proudly displaying their national flags, reflecting the universal nature of the Church, as noted by CBS News and Los Angeles Times.

Earlier in the day, Pope Leo celebrated a private Mass near the tomb of St. Peter and prayed at the gravesites of past popes in the grottoes beneath the basilica. This tradition symbolizes continuity in the papacy and acknowledges the varied history of the Church, embracing both progressive and conservative elements. Additionally, he participated in the official unsealing of the papal apartments, a significant step as he prepares for his formal installation ceremony next week, as highlighted by NPR and South China Morning Post.