Pope Leo XIV, who ascended to the papacy recently, delivered his inaugural address on Saturday, aiming to strengthen the Church's outreach and relevance in the contemporary world. His remarks underscored a deep commitment to building on the foundation laid by his predecessor, Pope Francis. Citing a significant papal document—Evangelii Gaudium—Leo highlighted his dedication to the church's mission, particularly in relation to marginalized communities.

He expressed aspirations for “growth in collegiality” and “courageous and trusting dialogue” with modern society. Noting that the Church’s responsibilities extend to addressing the challenges posed by rapid industrial advancements—such as the rise of artificial intelligence—he spoke about the necessity of safeguarding human dignity.

Additionally, the new pope honored Francis as a model of humility and service. Cardinal Baltazar Enrique Porras Cardozo conveyed consensus among the cardinals regarding Leo's emphasis on continuity with Francis' teachings and modern challenges, indicating a supportive environment for the new leadership.

As Leo XIV embarks on his papal journey, his vision reflects a blend of tradition and innovation, with a clear focus on upholding core Christian values in a changing world.