In a remarkable turn of events, Robert Prevost was inaugurated as the first American Pope, adopting the name Leo XIV. This momentous occasion drew world leaders and an impressive congregation of hundreds of thousands of followers to St. Peter’s Square.
Beginning his papacy with a conciliatory tone, Leo XIV emphasized the importance of unity among Catholics and assured that he would uphold the church’s traditions, steering clear of autocratic governance.
His inaugural ride in the popemobile, through a thrumming crowd of approximately 200,000 people, set an energetic tone for the ceremonies marking his installation as the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.
Reuters reported:
“Supporters waved flags from both the United States and Peru, vying for recognition of him as the first pope from their respective countries. Born in Chicago, the 69-year-old pontiff has extensive ties to Peru, having served as a missionary there and holding Peruvian citizenship.”
A HISTORIC FIRST: Pope Leo XIV captivates crowds during his inaugural popemobile ride!
In a joyous prelude to his inauguration Mass, he extended his journey beyond tradition, delighting onlookers. #PopeLeoXIV #PapalInaugurationpic.twitter.com/vcOLR9S26m— EWTN Vatican (@EWTNVatican) May 18, 2025
Prevost, largely unknown to the public prior to his election, ascended to the papacy on May 8, following a surprisingly swift conclave that lasted less than a day.
“In a sermon delivered in polished Italian, Leo affirmed his commitment to continue the legacy of Pope Francis on pressing social issues, including poverty alleviation and environmental stewardship.”
“He pledged to address the pressing questions and challenges of contemporary society, while simultaneously reassuring conservatives of his intention to uphold the ‘rich heritage of the Christian faith’ and reiterating calls for unity.”
Watch: Secretary of State Marco Rubio and VP JD Vance welcome the American Pope.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio greets Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Basilica following the Inaugural Mass. pic.twitter.com/GHAoeCZsu2
— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 18, 2025
U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha greet Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Basilica after the Inaugural Mass. pic.twitter.com/4ww2bx0rbR
— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 18, 2025
Associated Press noted:
“During the Mass, emotions ran high as Leo was adorned with the lambswool stole and the iconic fisherman’s ring, symbols of his new responsibilities. The weight of leading 1.4 billion Catholics seemed to settle upon him in that moment.”
“He gazed at the ring and clasped his hands in prayer, visibly moved.”
Pope Leo XIV visibly emotional as he receives the Fisherman’s Ring at his inauguration as Bishop of Rome and Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church pic.twitter.com/gZ8iI05r4M
— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 18, 2025
Leo aspires to embody ‘a servant to the faithful’ through the dual pillars of love and unity, aspiring for the church to act as ‘a beacon of peace in the world’.
“’Our primary aspiration must be for a united church, a symbol of communion that serves as a catalyst for a reconciled world,’ he declared. ‘In our current era, we witness far too much discord, numerous wounds inflicted by hatred and violence, prejudice, and an economic system that exploits the Earth’s resources while marginalizing the most vulnerable.’”
An emotionally resonant moment as the crowd chants “Many more years!” in Greek during Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration. pic.twitter.com/VRViyP2k7y
— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 18, 2025
Christus vincit! Christus regnat! Christus imperat!
Christ conquers, Christ reigns, Christ commands
The Laudes Regiae, or Royal Acclamations, during the Inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, invoking the Saints of Heaven for their assistance. pic.twitter.com/RHP1ZaKYks
— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 18, 2025
For further insights:
WATCH: Vice President and Second Lady Vance Meet Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City
