VATICAN CITY — Marking the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the United States, Pope Leo XIV called for a renewed dedication to peace on Sunday. The Chicago-born pontiff, recognized as history’s first American pope, addressed the crowd from his studio window overlooking St. Peter’s Square, delivering his traditional Sunday noon blessing in English.
“Two days ago marked the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States of America,” Leo said. “I renew my prayers for those who lost their lives and for those who continue to bear the wounds of that tragic day.”
The Pope emphasized the urgency of prayer during a period of global instability. “At a time when conflict and violence afflict so many of our brothers and sisters, I invite everyone to pray that the Lord will bestow his gift of peace upon the world,” he stated. He followed with remarks in Italian, noting that the memory of the events a quarter-century ago should compel a renewed commitment to peace, primarily through prayer.
The anniversary holds personal significance for Leo, who was living in Rome on Sept. 11, 2001. At the time, he was known as Robert Prevost, serving as the Chicago provincial leader of the Augustinian religious order and attending a major assembly of his order. He had been elected superior of the entire Augustinian order just three days later, on Sept. 14, which also happens to be his birthday. Prevost served two consecutive terms in that role until 2012.
Vatican News highlighted this connection by republishing excerpts from Leo’s first homily as superior, delivered on Sept. 21, 2001. In that address, the future pope reflected on the attacks, stating, “We cannot fail to remember the tragic events that shook the United States on Sept. 11.”
He continued by linking the violence to broader systemic issues, remarking that “hatred and violence will continue to grow as long as so many people are forced to live in extreme poverty and are oppressed by so many forms of injustice.”
Prayer is personal, but global policy requires action. Hope leaders listen beyond the square.
First American pope. Imagine the amount of paperwork involved in that transition. Respect the history.
The link between poverty and violence remains relevant after twenty-five years. Has anything actually changed?
Wait, Leo XIV? I thought we were still on Francis. Did I miss a election?
It is powerful to hear a Pope speak English so naturally. This anniversary needs more than just words, though.