Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pontiff, celebrated his inaugural Easter yesterday with a powerful appeal for peace, justice, and the protection of the vulnerable. Speaking from an open-air altar in St. Peter’s Square, adorned with white roses and spring perennials, the pontiff called on the faithful to resist despair in the face of war and oppression.
“The wounds of the world, the cries of the weak, and the violence that surrounds us demand our attention,” Pope Leo said. “Yet even in darkness, hope springs forth, and life produces fruit.” He echoed the warning of his predecessor, Pope Francis, against indifference to “persistent injustice, evil, and cruelty.”
The Easter celebration coincided with ongoing conflicts in the Gulf—between the U.S. and Israel versus Iran—and the war in Ukraine. In Israel, traditional ceremonies at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre were scaled back due to missile threats, limiting gatherings and straining relations between authorities and Christian leaders.
Back home in Nigeria, Christians celebrated across churches nationwide. Vice President Kashim Shettima urged citizens to remain patient and united as the country navigates economic and security challenges. “Easter is the story of light piercing darkness, of hope rising from pain, and faith prevailing over fear,” Shettima said, expressing confidence that Nigeria would overcome terrorism, kidnappings, and banditry.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and several governors, including Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Ahmed Ododo of Kogi, Dikko Radda of Katsina, Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, and Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, echoed similar messages. They emphasized unity, compassion, and resilience, urging Nigerians to reflect on the Easter values of love, sacrifice, humility, and service.
Governor Uzodimma stressed the importance of collective responsibility, saying, “If we truly practice love, our communities will be harmonious, and our nation prosperous.” Governor Abiodun added, “Easter reminds us that after every trial comes triumph. Let us work together in faith for the collective good.”
Across the country, church services were marked by prayers for peace, economic recovery, and reconciliation. The celebrations reinforced the universal message of Easter: hope, renewal, and triumph over adversity.