Pope Leo XIV Marks First Anniversary of Papacy with Visit to Pompeii and Naples
Pope Leo XIV spent May 8, 2026, commemorating the first anniversary of his election with a pastoral journey through Pompeii and Naples, calling for a renewed trust in divine love to heal a world scarred by war.
The Holy Father began his visit at the Shrine of Pompeii, where he met with a charitable organization dedicated to assisting those in need. During his visit to the “Temple of Charity,” the Pope urged volunteers to let the example of Jesus drive their mission. “Allow yourselves to be inspired and propelled by the joy that comes from Jesus’ words and His example, and proclaim it to everyone,” he told the group.
Reflecting on the spiritual significance of the location, Pope Leo XIV described the Shrine as a “place of grace” and noted that the “Temple of Charity” and the “Temple of Faith” serve to sustain one another. He paid tribute to Saint Bartolo Longo, whom he canonized on October 19 of the previous year, recalling how the Saint viewed the Valley of Pompeii as a “triumph of faith and charity” and a “place of love that warms the heart.”
The visit took on a deeper emotional tone as the Pope addressed the current state of global conflict, describing the spiritual work of the Shrine as “the caress of God on the wounds of humanity tested by war,” according to reports from La Stampa. In a personal reflection on his year in office, the Pope remarked, “I am the first blessed.”
Following the events in Pompeii, the Pope continued his pastoral visit to Naples, as noted by Sky TG24. Upon his arrival, he was welcomed by Cardinal Battaglia, who emphasized the city’s spiritual character, stating that “Naples teaches fraternity.”
This anniversary journey underscores the Pope’s ongoing commitment to integrating faith with tangible humanitarian action, positioning the church as a source of serenity and harmony in a fractured world.
