Pope Leo XIV Inaugurated in Vatican Ceremony Attended by Thousands

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope and a dual citizen of the United States and Peru, was inaugurated in a historic Mass held at St. Peter's Square, attended by tens of thousands including presidents, religious leaders, and international delegations. The ceremony featured traditional rituals and the symbolic presentation of the pallium and the fisherman’s ring, which signify papal authority, although no new formal powers were granted during the Mass itself. Leo delivered a homily emphasizing love and unity as central to his mission, invoking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and reflecting on the legacy of Pope Francis. The event highlighted his commitment to peace, justice, and truth, marking the start of his pontificate with a call for the Church to be a missionary and harmonious presence in a complex world. The pope's inaugural public appearances included a popemobile tour through the piazza, linking him closely with the global Catholic community. The Mass also featured readings in Latin and Greek, underscoring the Church's universal mission, and prominently displayed a Marian icon connected to Leo's Augustinian roots.