The new Pontiff, the American cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, greeted the over 150 thousand faithful who arrived in St. Peter’s Square with emotion to welcome him as a Holy Father
«Peace is with all of you, peace enters our heart and reaches everyone. We build bridges to be a people in peace ». With these words, Pope Leone XIV He turned to more than 150 thousand faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, in his first message after the election that took place at the fourth vote of the Conclave.
“We are disciples of Christ, he precedes us”added, visibly moved.
The new pontiff then said: “I am a son of Sant’Agostino, we go on together, hand in hand.”
His first prayer was dedicated “for world peace”. He continued saying: «God loves us, God loves us all, evil will not prevail. This is the peace of the Risen Christ, a disarmed and disarming peace ».
«God loves us all unconditionally. We still keep in our ears that weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis who blessed Rome. He gave his blessing to the whole world that morning of Easter day. Allow me to follow up on that same blessing “said again.
He also recalled that today the Madonna of Pompeii is celebrated and, together with the faithful present in the square, recited an ave Maria.
“Thanks to Pope Francis”said Leone XIV, expressing his gratitude to the predecessor Jorge Mario Bergoglio. «I also want to thank the cardinal confreres who have chosen me – he said – To be Peter’s successor and walk with you as a united Church, always looking for peace, justice, always trying to work as men ».
The pontiff then reiterated: «We are disciples of Christ, Christ precedes us, the world needs his light, humanity needs him as the bridge to be achieved by God and his love. Help us too and the other to build bridges with dialogue, with the encounter, all joining us to be only one people, always at peace “.
Finally, Pope Leo XIV granted theplenary indulgence from the central loggia of the Basilica of San Pietro and has given the blessing to the crowd.
