Pope Leo XIV Holds First Mass in Sistine Chapel After Election

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost and the first U.S.-born pope from Chicago, celebrated his first mass in the Sistine Chapel shortly after his election as the 267th pontiff. In his homily delivered partly in English and Italian, he emphasized the Church's mission to be a beacon amid global challenges posed by a lack of faith, addressing issues like the crisis of the family and human dignity. He described himself as a 'faithful administrator' committed to serving the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide and acknowledged the difficulties Christianity faces in modern society. The Vatican announced his official installation Mass will take place on May 18, followed by his first general audience on May 21, during which he will engage with Vatican officials, cardinals, the media, the diplomatic corps, and the public. Pope Leo requested continuity in Vatican leadership by asking current office heads to remain in their roles temporarily to allow for reflection and dialogue before staffing decisions. His election has been a source of pride for Chicago Catholics, who see his rise as a profound and emotional milestone for the community.