Tens of Thousands Celebrate Historic Inauguration of Pope Leo XIV
VATICAN CITY – St. Peter’s Square was filled with tens of thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries on Sunday, as the world commemorated the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in history. The installation ceremony seamlessly blended ancient rituals with modern symbolism, capturing the significance of a leader for the global Catholic community.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance led the American delegation, paying respects to the late Pope Francis before the Mass. Pope Leo, a 69-year-old Augustinian missionary, began his day with a tour in the popemobile—a symbol of papal accessibility—before proceeding to the basilica for the solemn ceremony.
High-profile attendees included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte. Leo’s papacy comes during turbulent times, with peace initiatives for Ukraine and Gaza among his priorities, while he also plans to address the challenges posed by artificial intelligence.
The Mass featured the ceremonial acceptance of the pallium and fisherman’s ring symbols, as well as a collaborative rite of obedience involving Cardinals, bishops, and laity. As security was heightened for the day, officials expect a total of 250,000 attendees, underscoring the historic significance of this moment.
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