Laudato Voices | A Papacy dedicated to peace, unity and upholding the ecological legacy of Pope Francis | May 8, 2026
Peace. Responsibility to future generations. Justice for the poor. Faith.
May 8, 2026, marks the first anniversary of Pope Leo XIV’s election as Successor of Peter. During his first year, he has strengthened the Church’s commitment to unity and Peace while also upholding the vision of Laudato Si’: care for creation, ecological conversion, justice for the poor, peace among peoples, and responsibility to future generations.
From his earliest addresses, Pope Leo XIV has linked the cry of the earth with the cry of humanity. He urges all to reject indifference, consumerism, environmental harm, and war, teaching that peace, human dignity, and care for creation are inseparable.
Throughout this first year, Pope Leo XIV has:
* Reaffirmed the principles of Laudato Si’ as central to Catholic social teaching.
* Encouraged ecological conversion in dioceses, parishes, schools, and families.
* Promoted sustainable lifestyles rooted in simplicity, solidarity, and gratitude.
* Called world leaders to greater responsibility regarding climate change and environmental justice.
* Connected environmental protection with the defense of the poor and vulnerable.
* Repeatedly appealed for peace, reminding the world that war devastates both humanity and creation.
* Encouraged young people to become protagonists of a culture of hope and care for our common home.
* Supported initiatives for renewable energy, ecological education, and ethical stewardship within Church institutions.
* Continued the dialogue between faith, science, and global cooperation for the protection of creation.
This first anniversary comes at a time of conflict, uncertainty, and an environmental crisis, making his message of peace and hope even more important.
Below is the statement of Cardinal Baldo Reina, Vicar of His Holiness for the Diocese of Rome
‘In communion with all the holy people of God living in Rome today, we hold ourselves around our Bishop, Pope Leo XIV, to tell him our affection and assure him of our prayers one year after his election to the Pontificate. He is among us the image of the Good Shepherd who carries himself with the joys and hopes of the flock entrusted to him, who announces peace and mercy, who makes known the Gospel of love, and who sows hope with full hands.
This first anniversary falls at a time marked by dangerous conflicts and laceration. The desire for peace that our Bishop has invoked since the first lines of his Pontificate is becoming an increasingly necessary prophecy for the world.
For this reason, while we say “thank you” to Pope Leone for all that he has shared with us in this first year, for his countless attentions, for his various visits, for his fruitful Master, for his closeness manifested on so many occasions and for the love with which he follows us, we tell him our commitment to recharge us with the desire for good and peace that he carries in his heart for Rome and for the whole world.
The Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, guards him and always accompanies his steps.’” “Everything is Connected” As Pope Leo XIV continues the path illuminated by Laudato Si’, his pontificate calls the Church and the world toward reconciliation: with God, with one another, and with creation itself.
May this first anniversary renew in all people the commitment to peace, justice, fraternity, and care for our common home.
We wish Pope Leo XIV continued strength and guidance in his service. Listen to our Song dedicated to Pope Leo – In the One Christ We are One
