In his inaugural address delivered at the Vatican on Saturday, the newly elected pontiff laid out a forward-looking vision for the Catholic Church, heavily drawing on the teachings and legacy of his predecessor, the late Pope Francis. The new pope emphasized themes of humility, service, and a renewed commitment to social justice, echoing many of the hallmark values that characterized Francis’ decade-long papacy.
Addressing a large crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square and millions watching worldwide, the pope praised Pope Francis as a ‘model of Gospel-centered leadership’ and acknowledged the late pope’s impact on the global perception and mission of the Catholic Church. He stated, “Francis reminded us that the Church must be a place for all — especially for the poor, the excluded, and the suffering.”
The new leader affirmed his commitment to continuing many of the reforms initiated during Francis’ tenure, including efforts to address clergy abuse, promote environmental stewardship, and encourage greater laity participation in church governance. While he did not announce specific policy changes, his remarks suggested continuity with the priorities outlined by Francis, as well as a willingness to face the complex challenges of a modern and increasingly secular world.
He also called for a renewed spirit of dialogue with other faiths and cultures, asserting that ‘our mission is to be bridges, not barriers.’ In a moving moment, he asked for prayers not only for himself but also for the global Church’s role in fostering peace, unity, and compassion in troubled societies.
The address concluded with a blessing and a moment of silent prayer in honor of Pope Francis, whose impact on both the Church and international humanitarian efforts was widely lauded around the world. Observers noted the new pope’s blend of reverence for tradition and openness to reform as indicative of a continued, yet thoughtful, evolution of the Catholic Church under his leadership.
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