For the first time in Catholic history, an American pope delivered a message in his inaugural sermon that "a loss of faith leads to a crisis for humanity."
Fox News reported that Pope Leo XIV warned during his first Mass after being inaugurated in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City on 9th (local time) that "the loss of faith is causing a crisis in society as a whole."
In the sermon, Leo XIV said, "Jesus is still respected as a human figure, but in reality, he is often reduced to a mere charismatic leader or superhuman figure." He further noted, "Even baptized believers are falling into a state of practical atheism, and the gospel has become an object of mockery and contempt."
He noted, "In an environment where Christian faith is regarded as absurd, technology, money, power, and pleasure have become the new standards," stating, "In such a world, maintaining faith itself comes with suffering." He emphasized that a lack of faith leads to a loss of meaning in life, absence of mercy, degradation of human dignity, and the disintegration of families.
Leo XIV announced that he will focus on service and missionary work. He particularly highlighted caring for the poor and refugees as an important mission of the church. This direction is interpreted as a continuation of the line of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
The pope stated, "This situation shows that it is by no means easy to proclaim the gospel and bear witness to its truth," noting that believers find themselves in a reality where they endure mockery, opposition, and contempt, or at best become objects of tolerance and sympathy. He added that the atmosphere of the age that has lost faith poses obstacles not only to religious matters but also to the moral balance of society as a whole and the restoration of community.
While the pope did not officially reveal why he chose the new name "Leo," interpretations suggest it was a choice considering the strong beliefs and responses to social issues demonstrated by past popes named Leo. In fact, he is expected to take an active stance on issues of humanity and justice from the very beginning of his papacy.
Leo XIV, a graduate of Villanova University in the United States, is noted for his ability to articulate faith using symbols and metaphors. Future relations with American politics, particularly with the Trump administration, are also expected to draw attention. There is speculation that disagreements between the Vatican and the White House regarding immigration and human rights may resurface.