Pope Leo XIV, the first American to hold the papacy, marked the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks in the United States by calling for a renewed commitment to peace. Speaking from St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, he offered prayers for the victims and those affected by the tragic events of that day. The Chicago-born pope made his first public comments on the anniversary during his traditional Sunday noon blessing, which he delivered from a studio window overlooking the square. “Two days ago marked the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States of America,” Leo said. “I renew my prayers for those who lost their lives and for those who continue to bear the wounds of that tragic day.” He emphasized the need for global peace, stating, “At a time when conflict and violence afflict so many of our brothers and sisters, I invite everyone to pray that the Lord will bestow his gift of peace upon the world.” Speaking in Italian, Pope Leo XIV added, “The memory of the tragic events of 25 years ago pushes us to renew our commitment to peace, above all with prayer.” His comments reflect a broader message of unity and healing in the face of global tensions. The pope’s personal connection to the events of Sept. 11 dates back to 2001, when he was still a member of the Augustinian religious order. At the time, he was the Chicago provincial leader of the Augustinians and was attending a large assembly in Rome. He was later elected superior of the entire order on Sept. 14, 2001—his birthday—and held the position for two terms until 2012. Vatican News recently republished excerpts from his first homily as superior, delivered on Sept. 21, 2001. In it, the future pope reflected on the attacks, noting, “We cannot fail to remember the tragic events that shook the United States on Sept. 11.” He highlighted the broader causes of violence and unrest, stating, “The violence that the world witnessed last week in the United States is a tragic expression of a series of problems that are becoming increasingly acute everywhere. Hatred and violence will continue to grow as long as so many people are forced to live in extreme poverty and are oppressed by so many forms of injustice.” Prior to Pope Leo XIV’s remarks, two previous popes had visited Ground Zero in New York City. Pope Benedict XVI visited in 2008, and Pope Francis made a visit in 2015. These visits underscored the Catholic Church’s ongoing engagement with the legacy of the Sept. 11 attacks and its commitment to addressing the root causes of global conflict and suffering.