Explore the groundbreaking election of Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from the United States, and his powerful first speech calling for peace and unity.
Introduction to a Historic Moment
In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Robert Francis Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV on May 9, 2025, becoming the first pontiff from the United States. Chosen by cardinals from around the world to lead the Church’s 1.4 billion members, his election marks a new chapter in the Vatican’s history. This article delves into his inspiring first speech, his background, a fascinating archaeological discovery from Peru, and a traditional Peruvian recipe to celebrate his roots.
Pope Leo XIV’s First Speech: A Call for Peace
Pope Leo XIV’s first address from the Vatican balcony resonated with a message of peace, unity, and dialogue. Drawing inspiration from the Risen Christ and his predecessor, Pope Francis, he emphasized building bridges through charity and encounter. Below is an excerpt from his speech:
“Peace be with you all! This is the peace of the Risen Christ—an unarmed and disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, who loves us all unconditionally… God loves you all, and evil will not prevail!”
He expressed gratitude to the cardinals, paid homage to his Augustinian roots, and extended a special greeting to his former diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, where he served as a bishop. His call for a synodal Church—one that walks together, seeks peace, and supports the suffering—struck a chord globally.
Robert Francis Prevost was elected pope on Thursday, becoming the first pontiff from the United States. He chose the name Leo XIV after being selected by cardinals from around the world to lead the Catholic Church’s 1.4 billion members. Below is the english translation of Pope Leo XIV first speech:
“Peace be with you all!
Dearest brothers and sisters, this is the first greeting of the Risen Christ, the Good Shepherd who gave His life for God’s flock. I too wish that this greeting of peace may enter your hearts, reach your families, all people, wherever they may be, all peoples, the whole earth. Peace be with you!
This is the peace of the Risen Christ—an unarmed and disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, who loves us all unconditionally. We still hear in our ears the weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis blessing Rome!
The Pope who blessed Rome was giving his blessing to the world, to the whole world, that Easter morning. Allow me to continue that same blessing: God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail! We are all in God’s hands. Therefore, without fear, united hand in hand with God and with one another, let us go forward. We are disciples of Christ. Christ goes before us. The world needs His light. Humanity needs Him as the bridge to be reached by God and His love. Help us—and each other—to build bridges, through dialogue, through encounter, uniting everyone to be one people always in peace. Thank you, Pope Francis!
I also want to thank all my fellow cardinals who chose me to be the Successor of Peter and to walk with you, as a united Church always seeking peace, justice, always striving to work as men and women faithful to Jesus Christ, without fear, to proclaim the Gospel, to be missionaries.
I am a son of Saint Augustine, an Augustinian, who said: “With you I am a Christian, for you I am a bishop.” In this spirit, we can all walk together toward that homeland God has prepared for us.
To the Church of Rome, a special greeting! [applause] We must seek together how to be a missionary Church, a Church that builds bridges, dialogue, always open to receive like this square with open arms. Everyone—everyone who needs our charity, our presence, dialogue, and love.
And if you’ll allow me, a word, a greeting to all and in a special way to my dear diocese of Chiclayo, in Peru, where a faithful people have accompanied their bishop, have shared their faith, and have given so much, so much to remain a faithful Church of Jesus Christ.
To all of you, brothers and sisters of Rome, of Italy, of the whole world—we want to be a synodal Church, a Church that walks, a Church that always seeks peace, that always seeks charity, that always seeks to be close especially to those who suffer.
Today is the day of the Supplication to Our Lady of Pompeii. Our Mother Mary always wants to walk with us, be close, help us with her intercession and her love.
So I would like to pray together with you. Let us pray together for this new mission, for the whole Church, for peace in the world, and let us ask this special grace from Mary, our Mother.
Hail Mary.”
A Fascinating Peruvian Archaeological Discovery
Pope Leo XIV’s connection to Chiclayo, Peru, brings attention to the region’s rich history. In 1987, the archaeological discovery of the Lord of Sipán tomb near Chiclayo unveiled one of the most significant finds in South American history. This Moche culture burial site, dating back to around 300 CE, contained a nobleman adorned with gold, silver, and turquoise, revealing the sophistication of pre-Incan civilizations. The discovery, often compared to Tutankhamun’s tomb, underscores Peru’s cultural heritage and Chiclayo’s historical significance.
Is this a coincidence? As far as we know, there are no coincidences in politics. Are the Southern States trying to control the Vatican? Oh, we know the Vatican is a very strong political player in the world.... How much influence do you think the United States is gaining? Britain is finished, Europe is finished with Islamisation.... How, do you think?
Traditional Peruvian Recipe: Causa Limeña
To celebrate Pope Leo XIV’s Peruvian roots, here’s a recipe for Causa Limeña, a beloved dish from the Chiclayo region featuring layered mashed potatoes and savory fillings.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs yellow potatoes
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp ají amarillo paste (Peruvian yellow chili)
- 2 cans tuna or 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hard-boiled eggs and olives for garnish
Instructions:
- Boil potatoes until tender, then peel and mash with lime juice, oil, ají amarillo paste, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix tuna or chicken with mayonnaise and onion for the filling.
- In a mold, layer half the potato mixture, add the filling, and top with avocado slices.
- Cover with the remaining potato mixture and chill for 1 hour.
- Garnish with eggs and olives before serving.
This vibrant dish reflects Peru’s culinary diversity and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
