Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was officially inaugurated as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church during a breathtaking Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday morning, May 18, 2025. The event attracted an impressive crowd of at least 150,000 attendees, including numerous world leaders such as U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
During his homily, Pope Leo emphasized messages of inclusivity and unity, echoing the pastoral themes of his predecessor, Pope Francis. "The cardinals have sought a shepherd capable of preserving the rich heritage of the Christian faith while addressing the contemporary challenges," he remarked, indicating a commitment to both tradition and forward-looking solutions. He expressed a heartfelt desire for all to be united in one family while maintaining acknowledgment of diverse backgrounds: “We still see too much discord…this unity does not cancel out differences.”
The pope captivated the throng with his openness, praying in Latin and donning traditional vestments, as he sought blessings to serve the faithful in the spirit of St. Peter. Before the Mass began, he joyfully greeted the massive crowd from an open-top popemobile, which stirred excitement and applause among the faithful who came to witness this historic moment.
Born in Chicago, Leo XIV has made history as the first American pope, breaking a long-standing tradition that often favored papal candidates from different backgrounds. His election comes at a time of considerable challenges and tension in the Catholic community in the United States, where he hopes to mediate and restore relationships amid ongoing complexities.
With a clear vision for his papacy, Leo has prioritized significant issues, including a focus on peace in conflict zones such as Ukraine and Gaza, and awareness of the risks associated with advancements in artificial intelligence. He extends an invitation to all, regardless of their faith, to pursue love and understanding in the pursuit of peace and communal harmony.
In a symbolic moment during the Mass, priests distributed communion to the faithful, allowing many in attendance to partake in the sacred ritual. This inauguration symbolizes a blending of tradition and modernity, and the new pope appears poised to fulfill his mission of spreading love and unity across the globe.
