Video: Pope Leo XIV urges world to embrace Easter hope amid death’s shadow
Abdullateef Fowewe
In his first Easter Sunday Mass as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV celebrated in St. Peter’s Square, dressed in white papal vestments and zucchetto, calling on the faithful to carry the resurrection’s message into a troubled world.
Presiding over the vibrant gathering under clear skies, the Pope acknowledged the challenges of embracing Easter’s promise.
He noted that “the Easter message of hope and light is not always easy to accept, since the power of death constantly threatens us both interiorly and externally.”
Yet, he emphasised, “the Risen Christ gives us certain hope, which is much needed in the world today.”
Drawing parallels between resurrection and renewal, Pope Leo XIV reflected on creation’s rebirth.
“The day of the resurrection of Christ reminds us so much about creation, thus takes us back to creation, and at the same time proclaims a new life stronger than death is now beginning for humanity,” he said.
He described Easter as transformative, “Easter is the new creation brought about by the Risen Lord. It is a new beginning, and the life finally made eternal by God’s victory over the ancient enemy.”
The pontiff called for action, stressing, “We need this song of hope today. And it is we ourselves, risen with Christ, who must bring Him into the streets of the world.”
Thousands of pilgrims filled the square, waving flags and joining in prayer as the Pope concluded the Mass, reinforcing themes of hope and eternal life on this historic occasion.
