Key Developments

Speaking from his studio window overlooking St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV made his first public comments marking a quarter-century since the devastating 9/11 terrorist attacks. Addressing the faithful in English at the conclusion of his traditional Sunday noon blessing, the Chicago-born Pope acknowledged the solemn milestone.

"Two days ago marked the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States of America," Pope Leo stated. He continued, "I renew my prayers for those who lost their lives and for those who continue to bear the wounds of that tragic day." Emphasizing the broader need for tranquility, he added, "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 reiterated this sentiment in Italian, urging, "The memory of the tragic events of 25 years ago pushes us to renew our commitment to peace, above all with prayer."

The Pope's connection to 9/11 dates back to the day of the attacks. On September 11, 2001, the then Robert Prevost was in Rome attending a significant assembly of his Augustinian religious order, where he served as the Chicago provincial leader. Just three days later, on his birthday, he was elected superior of the entire order, a position he held for two consecutive terms until 2012. Vatican News recently republished excerpts from his first homily as superior, delivered on September 21, 2001, where he reflected on the attacks, stating, "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."

Key Takeaways

  • Pope Leo XIV used the 25th anniversary of 9/11 to issue a powerful call for global peace and renewed commitment to overcoming conflict and violence.
  • As the first American Pope, his personal connection to the 9/11 attacks adds a unique dimension to the Vatican's remembrance of the tragedy.
  • The pontiff's reflections, both current and from 2001, underscore the enduring message that injustice and poverty fuel hatred and violence worldwide.

Why It Matters

The commemoration by Pope Leo XIV holds particular significance as he is the first American to hold the papacy, bringing a deeply personal perspective to the remembrance of an event that profoundly impacted his home country. His call for peace resonates globally, especially "at a time when conflict and violence afflict so many," highlighting the Church's consistent message for reconciliation and an end to suffering. This address continues a tradition of papal remembrance, following visits to Ground Zero by Pope Benedict in 2008 and Pope Francis in 2015, reinforcing the Vatican's enduring solidarity with victims of terrorism and its advocacy for a more peaceful world.