Family Is a Union of Man and Woman” Pope Leo XIV Declares In First Papal Speech

In his inaugural address to the Vatican diplomatic corps, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s stance on family, declaring that it is founded on the “stable union between a man and a woman.” The newly elected pontiff, the first American to hold the position, emphasized the dignity of both the unborn and the elderly, underscoring their value as creations of God.

The Pope’s remarks come ahead of his formal installation Mass, scheduled for Sunday, where he will officially begin his tenure as the leader of the Catholic Church. His speech signals a continuation of core Catholic teachings on marriage and family, while also emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and dialogue in fostering unity among nations and faiths.

Speaking before representatives from over 180 countries, Pope Leo XIV outlined his vision for his papacy, calling for a renewed commitment to multilateral diplomacy and interfaith dialogue as essential tools for global peace. He stressed that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a gift that requires active effort, including careful language and an end to the production of weapons.