Charles Esther
Pope Leo XIV officially reached the 100-day milestone of his pontificate on August 16, 2025.
Elected as the 267th pope on May 8, he has already participated in numerous historic events.
These include addressing over a million young people during the Jubilee of Youth and engaging warmly with pilgrims and dignitaries from around the world.
Pope Leo’s First General Audience
During his first general audience, Pope Leo appealed for peace in Gaza and for humanitarian aid access.
He emphasized the suffering of children, the elderly, and the sick amid ongoing hostilities.
The Holy Father also honored the late Pope Francis, reflecting on his recent passing and expressing gratitude for his guidance.
Chuma Asuzu, a Nigerian-born pilgrim living in Canada, attended the audience with his family and observed Pope Leo’s emotional demeanor during his first popemobile ride.
Welcoming Notable Figures at the Vatican
In his first 100 days, Pope Leo received a wide range of guests, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Argentina President Javier Milei, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, actor Jonathan Roumie, and professional athletes like Jannik Sinner and SSC Napoli.
Roumie, known for portraying Jesus in “The Chosen,” described the meeting as “fantastic,” praising the pope’s kindness, generosity, and attention.
Pope Leo Gives Marriage Advice to Newlyweds
Pope Leo offered heartfelt guidance to young couples shortly after their weddings.
He shared the example of his own parents, who prayed the rosary daily, and personally blessed couples like Cole and Anna Stevens from the United States.
Anna Stevens highlighted the pope’s focused and patient response to her husband’s question, describing it as a deeply meaningful encounter.
Chicago Family Gifts ‘Da Pope’ T-Shirt
A family from Chicago went viral after gifting Pope Leo a “Da Pope” T-shirt during a visit to Albano, Italy, on July 20, 2025.
The Muñoz family, vacationing in Rome, described feeling blessed as they received the pope’s attention and were able to kiss his ring.
Their lighthearted gift referenced the popular “Da Bears” sketches from “Saturday Night Live.”
Faithful Welcome Pope Leo in Castel Gandolfo
Continuing the tradition set by Pope Francis, Pope Leo spent two weeks in July at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo.
He visited the St. Martha Home for the Elderly, personally greeting residents aged 80 to 101 and interacting with nurses and staff.
The pope prayed and sang with the elderly, emphasizing themes from the day’s Gospel reading.
Augustinian Sisters Sing for Pope Leo
A group of Augustinian Sisters Servant of Jesus and Mary performed a song for Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace.
The pope, an Augustinian himself, was visibly moved by the performance, showing his appreciation for their dedication.
Celebrating Pentecost With 70,000 Faithful
During Pentecost, Pope Leo addressed approximately 70,000 pilgrims, urging them to embrace the Holy Spirit and follow the path of the Beatitudes.
He called for love, peace, and unity, emphasizing that Pentecost renews both the Church and the world.
Jubilee of Youth Attracts 1 Million Young Adults
The Jubilee of Youth in Rome, held from July 28 to August 3, drew an estimated 1 million young people.
Pope Leo encouraged them to live according to Jesus’ example and participate actively in prayer and service.
One pilgrim from Omaha, Nebraska, Clare Fletcher, described the pope’s engagement with youth as “poignant and so relevant,” praising his thoughtful responses during the prayer vigil and Mass at Tor Vergata.
David Awoyode