Pope Leo XIV’s first mass: American pontiff addresses crisis in faith and humanity
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, delivers his first homily as pontiff, addressing the crisis of faith and humanity. He calls for outreach and highlights the loss of faith.
On May 9, 2025, Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, celebrated his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel, addressing over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. In his homily, the pontiff acknowledged the significant challenges ahead and underscored the profound impact of faith on humanity.
His election as the first North American pope is a milestone in the history of the Catholic Church, and his first Mass served as an opportunity to reflect on the current state of the faith.
Pope Leo XIV’s first mass: a call for outreach and faith restoration
During his first official mass as Pope Leo XIV, he spoke about the global crisis of faith in our society. According to the new pope, "There are many settings in which the Christian faith is considered absurd, meant for the weak and unintelligent. Settings where other securities are preferred, like technology, money, success, power, or pleasure."
Pope Leo XIV delivered his first mass as pontiff in the Sistine Chapel. Photo: AFP
Pope Leo XIV firmly stated that much of what the Church stands for and the belief in Jesus Christ, has been lessened in the eyes of believers and non-believers. Additionally, he said that the teachings from Christ have been pushed aside and instead people underestimate him, only seeing him as a "charismatic leader or superman."
Pope Leo XIV’s cal for mercy and social issues
Just like Pope Francis, the new pope's focus is on humanity and kindness in face of the global situation. That's why in his homily he said that humanity is not only in a crisis of faith but also in "human dignity".
The new pope expressed sadness over this and stated that "a lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life".
