Pope Leo XIV Inaugurated in Vatican Amid Tens of Thousands, World Leaders

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, will be inaugurated in a historic ceremony at the Vatican, marked by rich religious symbolism and attended by tens of thousands, including global religious and political leaders. The ceremony includes the presentation of the Fisherman's Ring and the pallium, symbols of the pope's authority and pastoral role, while notably excluding the papal tiara, which has not been used since 1963. Pope Leo, born in Chicago and elected to succeed Pope Francis, has emphasized themes of peace and social justice amid ongoing global conflicts, with hopes that the Vatican might serve as a mediator in international disputes such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The event will see the pope making a public procession in the popemobile and delivering a homily outlining his papacy's focus on unity and reconciliation. High-profile attendees include US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and other world leaders, highlighting the global significance of this pontificate. The inauguration reflects Pope Leo's centrist and peace-driven approach in a polarized world, seeking to bring people together through his leadership.