In the wake of the Mass inaugurating his Petrine Ministry, Pope Leo XIV welcomed representatives from various Christian denominations and global religious traditions, reaffirming a vision steeped in bridge-building and shared humanity. With humility and clarity, the newly elected pontiff stepped into his role not just as the Bishop of Rome, but as a shepherd committed to the path of unity and dialogue.

During Monday’s special audience with ecumenical and interfaith delegations, Pope Leo evoked the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis—whom he described as the “Pope of Fratelli tutti”—noting his tireless efforts in nurturing mutual understanding and personal bonds among faith communities. “Without ever compromising the bonds that define our churches,” he said, “Pope Francis taught us to cherish the human face of encounter.” May his example continue to inspire, the Pope prayed.

Addressing his fellow Christian leaders, Pope Leo drew attention to the forthcoming 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, underscoring that authentic unity among Christians must be grounded in shared belief. “The visible and full communion of the Church remains one of the foremost goals of my ministry as Bishop of Rome,” he affirmed.

He also noted the intrinsic link between ecumenism and synodality—the inclusive, dialogical process Pope Francis championed—and pledged to further embed synodal values in the Church’s fabric.

Turning to leaders from non-Christian traditions, Pope Leo declared that “our shared journey must be rooted in human fraternity.” He echoed Pope Francis’ pioneering strides in interfaith outreach, particularly the landmark Document on Human Fraternity, which promotes dialogue as a path, collaboration as a practice, and understanding as a principle.

He praised the deepening relationship between the Catholic Church and the Jewish people, calling it a bond built on common spiritual heritage and resilient even amid discord. Speaking of Islam, he emphasized mutual respect and conscience as firm foundations for interreligious cooperation. Pope Leo also extended heartfelt gratitude to leaders from traditions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and others for their efforts toward global peace.

The Pope’s address moved beyond spiritual kinship to a moral rallying cry. He urged all faith traditions to stand united in rejecting war, weapons proliferation, and economic injustice. Instead, he called for a collective “yes” to peace, disarmament, and sustainable human development—values desperately needed in a fractured world.

Pope Leo XIV concluded his remarks with a prayerful invitation. “Let us ask God,” he said, “to plant His blessings deep within our hearts, that we may live not only as His children but as siblings to one another. May this witness of fraternity kindle hope and help shape a world worthy of our highest human ideals.”

In an era defined by divisions and distrust, Pope Leo’s message rings out as a resounding call to reconciliation and mutual care—across altars, across borders, and across beliefs.