Pope Leo XIV Leads First Easter Vigil and Sunday Mass

Easter Vigil in St. Peter’s Basilica

On Saturday evening Pope Leo XIV celebrated his inaugural Easter Vigil, reflecting on the struggle between good and evil and the promise of rebirth. The homily emphasized that “God meets sin’s hardness with love’s power,” a theme he framed as a call to overcome division.

Sunday Mass and Urbi et Orbi Blessing

The following morning the pontiff presided over an open‑air Mass in St. Peter’s Square. After the liturgy he delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing, addressing both the city of Rome and the world. He urged the faithful to “let the gifts of harmony and peace grow everywhere.”

Global and U.S. Reactions

Hundreds of thousands gathered in the Vatican while millions tuned in across the United States. American bishops highlighted the pope’s message as a timely reminder amid ongoing conflicts and domestic polarization, urging congregations to embody the Easter promise of renewal.