Current time in Vatican City: 11:33 a.m. May 18
Pope Leo XIV presided over his inaugural Mass this Sunday morning at St. Peter’s Square, officially marking the commencement of his pontificate as the first American pope, and gathering a crowd of over 1.4 billion Roman Catholics. Notable attendees included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, all gathered to celebrate this momentous occasion.
During the solemn ceremony, Pope Leo, clad in traditional vestments, prayed in Latin, invoking his role as a successor to St. Peter, tasked with guiding the faithful. He expressed his aspiration to be a shepherd who respects the Christian tradition while addressing contemporary challenges. His homily conveyed aspirations of a unified faith community tasked with confronting the pressing issues of today, stating, "Brothers and sisters, this is the hour for love!"
The new pontiff founded his upbringing within the Augustinian order, shaping his ideals rooted in spirituality and action — a balance he intends to continue throughout his leadership. As he navigates global affairs, Pope Leo has already underscored critical topics, including the importance of dialogue regarding artificial intelligence and advocating for peace in conflict zones like Ukraine and Gaza.
Zelensky's attendance underscores the pope's pledge to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine, responding to the ongoing turmoil. His interaction with Ukraine’s leader symbolizes the hope held for a future marked by reconciliation, aligning with Pope Leo's aim to foster unity among diverse believers.
As thousands cheered in the square, Leo's journey from Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago to pontiff highlights a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church amidst a backdrop of scientific advancements, social debate, and a culturally fragmented world. His term promises a renewed focus on inclusivity, justice, and proactive mission work reflective of broader community and interfaith engagement.
As Pope Leo XIV steps onto the global stage, his commitment to embodying a pastor's closeness to faith-filled followers emphasizes a transformative approach to leadership for the Catholic Church in the years ahead.
Pope Leo XIV presided over his inaugural Mass this Sunday morning at St. Peter’s Square, officially marking the commencement of his pontificate as the first American pope, and gathering a crowd of over 1.4 billion Roman Catholics. Notable attendees included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, all gathered to celebrate this momentous occasion.
During the solemn ceremony, Pope Leo, clad in traditional vestments, prayed in Latin, invoking his role as a successor to St. Peter, tasked with guiding the faithful. He expressed his aspiration to be a shepherd who respects the Christian tradition while addressing contemporary challenges. His homily conveyed aspirations of a unified faith community tasked with confronting the pressing issues of today, stating, "Brothers and sisters, this is the hour for love!"
The new pontiff founded his upbringing within the Augustinian order, shaping his ideals rooted in spirituality and action — a balance he intends to continue throughout his leadership. As he navigates global affairs, Pope Leo has already underscored critical topics, including the importance of dialogue regarding artificial intelligence and advocating for peace in conflict zones like Ukraine and Gaza.
Zelensky's attendance underscores the pope's pledge to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine, responding to the ongoing turmoil. His interaction with Ukraine’s leader symbolizes the hope held for a future marked by reconciliation, aligning with Pope Leo's aim to foster unity among diverse believers.
As thousands cheered in the square, Leo's journey from Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago to pontiff highlights a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church amidst a backdrop of scientific advancements, social debate, and a culturally fragmented world. His term promises a renewed focus on inclusivity, justice, and proactive mission work reflective of broader community and interfaith engagement.
As Pope Leo XIV steps onto the global stage, his commitment to embodying a pastor's closeness to faith-filled followers emphasizes a transformative approach to leadership for the Catholic Church in the years ahead.
