Pope Leon XIV urges peace and ecology in first Regina Caeli, cites his pre‑Papacy books

Pope Leon XIV delivered his first Regina Caeli on the feast of the Ascension, two days after his election. Speaking to the faithful in St. Peter’s Square, he called for "unity with God" and linked the celebration to a global appeal for peace and integral ecology. He quoted St. Francis of Assisi, emphasized the need for respectful communication in the age of artificial intelligence, and referenced the week of Laudato Si’ as a renewal of ecological commitment.

The new pontiff also reflected on his literary background, noting that many popes wrote influential books before their elections. He highlighted works by former pontiffs—Juan Pablo I’s simple catechesis, John Paul II’s philosophical writings on love and responsibility, Benedict XVI’s clear explanations of the Christian creed, and Francis’s dialogic texts—showcasing a tradition of clear, accessible communication of faith that he intends to continue as Pope Leon XIV.