On May 9, 2025, Pope Leo XIV made history, not only as the first U.S.-born pope but also by surprising many when he spoke in English for the first time during the Mass, marking a significant moment in his papacy. While he began his first public appearance as pope speaking in Spanish, his decision to speak English during the Mass was unexpected. It was a notable moment because, despite his American roots, he chose to use English to address the faithful, perhaps signaling a new approach as the leader of the global Catholic Church.
Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass as pope on May 9, 2025, with the College of Cardinals present. This sacred occasion took place in the Sistine Chapel, a place rich in history and significance for the Catholic faith. As he began his homily, the pope addressed the men who had chosen him as their leader, marking the beginning of his papacy with a message focused on the future of the Church and its mission.
Pope Leo XIV Speaks English for the First Time Publicly
In his first homily, Pope Leo XIV broke from tradition by briefly addressing the gathering in English, quoting the Responsorial Psalm: “I will sing a new song to the Lord, because He has done marvels.” This brief message, while short, encapsulated the spirit of the new pope’s papacy—a reflection of the blessings and responsibility entrusted to him. His use of English was seen by many as a nod to his American background and a symbol of his commitment to engaging with the wider world.
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As the homily progressed, Pope Leo XIV spoke in Italian, reflecting on the challenges of preaching the Gospel in a world increasingly dismissive of faith. He acknowledged the societal trend toward materialism, where technology, wealth, power, and pleasure often take precedence over spiritual matters. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that these very environments are where the Church’s mission is most needed. Pope Leo XIV urged the faithful to carry the message of the Gospel into these spaces where faith is often mocked, and where true witness is needed more than ever.
Newly elected Pope Leo XIV began his first homily with words in English during Mass in the Sistine Chapel with the College of Cardinals. pic.twitter.com/BgiwQS8U8f
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 9, 2025
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The pope also highlighted the importance of understanding Jesus’ true identity, referencing the famous declaration of Peter: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” He stressed that only Jesus reveals the true face of the Father and serves as the ultimate example of holiness.
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Before his election as pope, Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, spent decades working in Peru, which shaped much of his pastoral approach. Arriving in Chulucanas, Peru, in 1985 as part of the Augustinian mission, he soon became deeply embedded in the local culture and communities. His time in Peru was transformative—not just for the communities he served, but also for the man who would later become pope.
Pope Leo XIV’s leadership in Peru was notable. He became the bishop of Chiclayo in 2015 and even embraced Peruvian citizenship, calling the country his “second homeland.” His missionary work in Peru became a foundation for his papacy, deeply influencing his approach to the Church’s global mission and his role as a spiritual leader.
Pope Leo XIV’s first homily as pope, his use of English, and his reflections on the challenges facing the Church today point toward a new era of faith and leadership. His commitment to preaching the Gospel in a world that often dismisses it is clear.
