ROME — On Thursday, Pope Leo XIV ushered in 2026 with a heartfelt call for peace, focusing particularly on nations torn apart by conflict and families affected by violence.

Marking the start of the New Year, Pope Leo conducted a moving Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. Later, he addressed a large crowd of pilgrims and tourists from his studio window overlooking the sunlit piazza, delivering a special midday prayer.

Highlighting the significance of January 1st as the church’s World Day of Peace, Pope Leo took the opportunity to extend a prayer for harmony.

“Let us unite in prayer for peace: foremost, in nations afflicted by conflict and suffering, and also within our homes, among families hurt by violence or distress,” he implored.

Following the busy Christmas festivities, Pope Leo will have a brief respite before celebrating the church’s Epiphany on January 6th. This day will also mark the conclusion of the 2025 Holy Year, a momentous event occurring every 25 years that drew millions of pilgrims to Rome.

Shortly after, Pope Leo will lead a two-day assembly with the College of Cardinals, including both those who elected him and those over 80 who did not participate in the conclave but remain part of the college. He is reviving a tradition, less frequent under Pope Francis, of gathering the cardinals to seek their advice on leading the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church.