10 Real Quotes from Pope Leo XIV That Define His Early Pontificate

Since his election to the See of Peter, Pope Leo XIV has captivated the world with a blend of humility, conviction and clarity. In an era awash with misinformation and fake quotes circulating on social media, it’s more important than ever to focus on what the pope has actually said.

In the first days of his papacy, Pope Leo XIV has spoken with clarity, conviction and compassion. Here are ten verified quotes that reflect his tone and vision:

1. “God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail!”

— Apostolic Blessing “Urbi et Orbi,” 8 May 2025

2. “Even today, there are many settings in which the Christian faith is considered absurd, meant for the weak and unintelligent. Settings where other securities are preferred, like technology, money, success, power or pleasure.”

— Homily for the Mass Pro Ecclesia, 9 May 2025

3. “Peace is built in the heart and from the heart, by eliminating pride and vindictiveness and carefully choosing our words.”

— Address to members of the diplomatic corps, 16 May 2025

4. “Religious experience is an essential dimension of the human person. Without it, it is difficult, if not impossible, to bring about the purification of the heart necessary for building peaceful relationships.”

— Address to members of the diplomatic corps, 16 May 2025

5. “Many of our Eastern brothers and sisters, including some of you, have been forced to flee their homelands because of war and persecution, instability and poverty, and risk losing not only their native lands, but also, when they reach the West, their religious identity. As a result, with the passing of generations, the priceless heritage of the Eastern Churches is being lost.”

— Address to participants in the Jubilee of Oriental Churches, 14 May 2025

6. “Our neighbours are not first our enemies … but other men and women with whom we can speak.”

— Address to participants in the Jubilee of Oriental Churches, 14 May 2025

7. “Let us disarm words and we will help to disarm the world.”

— Address to representatives of the media, 12 May 2025

8. “Communication is not only the transmission of information, but it is also the creation of a culture.”

— Address to representatives of the media, 12 May 2025

9. “Beginning with St. Peter and up to myself, his unworthy successor, the pope has been a humble servant of God and of his brothers and sisters, and nothing more than this.”

— Address to the College of Cardinals, 10 May 2025

10. “Do not be afraid! Accept the invitation of the Church and of Christ the Lord!”

— Regina Caeli, 11 May 2025