Sr. Amata J. Nowaszewska CSFN
Peace – the word of this year
Peace is one of the most recurring themes in papal statements. Even after his election, Leo XIV spoke of peace as “unarmed and disarming,” and later returned to this theme during his journeys, meetings, and Sunday reflections.
In the first year of his pontificate, he referred to peace and reconciliation more than 400 times. He also frequently spoke about unity, dialogue, hope, and human dignity.
First journeys and historic visits
Leo XIV made his first apostolic journey to Turkey and Lebanon. In Nicaea, on the occasion of the 1700th anniversary of the first ecumenical council, the Pope emphasized the importance of Christian unity, and in Lebanon – of dialogue and peace.
In the following months, Leo XIV became the first pope to visit Monaco and Algeria. In Annaba, ancient Hippo, he visited places associated with St. Augustine. During his trip to Spain, he became the first pope to address that country’s parliament.
On January 6, he concluded the Jubilee of the Year 2025, which had been initiated by Pope Francis, by closing the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Man, AI, and the poor
In his first encyclical, Magnifica humanitas, Leo XIV addressed the topic of artificial intelligence. He emphasized that technology can serve development, but it must remain subordinated to human dignity, freedom, and responsibility, as well as the common good.
The Pope also completed the apostolic exhortation Dilexi te on love for the poor, which had been begun under Francis. This theme returned during Leo XIV’s visit to Lampedusa in July and his meeting with migrants.
The Pope in a boat
In August, Leo XIV took part in the traditional procession on Lake Albano in Castel Gandolfo. He became the first pope to participate in the part of it that takes place on the water.
The past year clearly demonstrates the important emphases of Leo XIV’s pontificate: peace, unity, and the protection of human dignity.
