Pope Leo XIV’s First Homily – A Missionary Vision for Today’s Church
Introduction
In his very first homily after being elected, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful and deeply spiritual message. Speaking first in English, then continuing in Italian, he addressed the global Catholic Church with humility and clarity, affirming the timeless truth of Christian faith while responding to the challenges of our modern world.
A Call to Faith and Mission
At the heart of this homily lies Peter’s profession of faith: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Mt 16:16). Pope Leo XIV, following in the footsteps of Peter, emphasized the urgent need to reaffirm this proclamation today. He called the Church to be a missionary community, boldly announcing the Gospel in a world that often marginalizes belief.
A Clear-Eyed Look at the World
The new pope offered a sharp diagnosis of contemporary culture. He described two common attitudes toward Jesus: the dismissive view of the secular world and the lukewarm admiration of the masses. Both remain prevalent today, even among baptized Christians. Where faith is absent, he warned, society suffers from a crisis of meaning, loss of mercy, and moral decline.
A Humble but Radiant Church
Pope Leo XIV insisted that it is not grand architecture, but the holiness of its members that makes the Church credible. He urged all Christians to become authentic witnesses, living lives of humility and sacrifice. As Bishop of Rome, he pledged to lead by disappearing, so that Christ might be seen—echoing the spirit of martyrdom that shaped the Church’s earliest witness.
A Final Prayer to Mary
The homily concluded with a moving prayer to Mary, Mother of the Church, asking for the grace to serve faithfully and lead the people of God in charity, truth, and hope.
