Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration

Written by: Keya Gambhir

On May 18, 2025, the world witnessed a historic moment as Pope Leo XIV was inaugurated as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Illinois, he is the first American pope in the Church’s long history. His election highlights the global reach of the Catholic Church and represents leadership that connects people across continents.

The ceremony took place at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, where about 150,000 people gathered, including pilgrims and religious leaders from around the world. The event began with Pope Leo XIV riding through the crowd in the popemobile, warmly greeting those who came to witness the special day.

The inauguration Mass is a special church service filled with prayers, music, readings from the Bible, a sermon called a homily, and Communion, much like a regular Sunday Mass. But this Mass also includes important rituals and symbols

One key moment is the reading from the Gospel, which tells the story of Jesus giving Saint Peter the responsibility to lead the Church. This reading was first proclaimed in Latin, the traditional language of the Church, and then in Greek. These ancient languages remind everyone that the Church aims to be universal, reaching people everywhere.

Near the altar was an image of Mary, called the Mother of Good Counsel. This is especially meaningful because Pope Leo XIV belongs to the Augustinian religious order, which honors Mary.

During the Mass, Pope Leo XIV received two important signs of his role. The first is the pallium, a woolen cloth worn over the shoulders that symbolizes the pope’s duty as a shepherd caring for his flock. The second is the Fisherman’s Ring, which represents the pope as a follower and successor of Saint Peter, the first pope. These symbols reflect the long history and great responsibility of the papacy.

After receiving these symbols, Pope Leo XIV was greeted by different groups within the Church, from cardinals to everyday church members, showing how the Church stands together behind its new leader.

In his homily, Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt message focused on unity, love, and peace. He called on the Church to be a “sign of unity and communion” and described it as a “leaven for a reconciled world.” The pope urged people to come together as one community to heal divisions and overcome challenges.

He also spoke about the urgent need to care for the Earth. He warned against the overuse and destruction of natural resources and encouraged everyone to protect the environment. His words inspired a spirit of understanding, justice, and peace.

Many important leaders attended the Mass. U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio represented the United States. Other guests included Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Peru’s President Dina Boluarte, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, and Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration marks a new chapter in the Catholic Church’s long history. As the first pope from the United States, he represents the Church’s global connection and hopes to lead with unity, faith, and care for our planet.