Pope Leo XIV officially began his ministry as the 267th successor to Saint Peter with an inaugural Mass at St. Peter’s Square, attended by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, international dignitaries, and religious leaders from around the world.
The attendees included US Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I.
Before the Mass, the newly elected pope, previously known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, rode through enthusiastic crowds in the popemobile, greeted by cheers and waving flags.
He then paused for prayer at the tomb of St. Peter. There, Pope Leo XIV received the symbols of the papal office: the fisherman’s ring, symbolizing apostolic succession, and the pallium, representing his pastoral responsibility.
In the homily of his inaugural mass, Pope Leo XIV called for renewed unity and love within the Church and across the globe.
He emphasized that “love and unity” are fundamental to the mission entrusted to St. Peter, saying, “Brothers and sisters, this is the hour for love!”
The pope encouraged the faithful to become “a sign of unity, a missionary Church that opens its arms to the world,” emphasizing humility and the self-sacrificing love exemplified by Christ.
The pontiff cited St. Augustine to underline his vision for the Church, saying it “consists of all those who are in harmony with their brothers and sisters and who love their neighbor,” highlighting the importance of solidarity amidst modern divisions and conflicts.
Pope Leo further reflected on the Church’s call to reconciliation, saying, “We want to be a small leaven of unity, communion, and fraternity within the world. We want to say to the world, with humility and joy: Look to Christ! Come closer to him!”
Pray for Pope Leo XIV and his intentions! 🙏
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