Pope Leo XIV has officially taken possession of his role as Bishop of Rome, addressing the mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, at a ceremony in Piazza dell’Aracoeli. The pope emphasized the spiritual and social dimensions of his episcopal mission, highlighting the importance of serving all members of the diocese with faith and dedication.
During the meeting, Pope Leo XIV stressed his commitment to collaboration with local administrative institutions and highlighted the historic mission of the Catholic Church in Rome, which has lived out its apostolic mission for two millennia. He also spoke about the Jubilee of Hope, expressing gratitude for the city’s administration and reiterating the importance of upholding human dignity.
Mayor Gualtieri praised the pope’s gesture, calling it a sign of affection for the Italian capital and reaffirming the deep bond between Rome and the universal dimension of the Church. The two leaders expressed hope that their collaboration would lead to a more just, sustainable, and inclusive city, with special attention to the peripheries and the most vulnerable.
Pope Leo XIV concluded his address by calling for an end to war across the world and urged the city to work together towards a new politics, new relationships between peoples, and a more humane social model. The pope’s words were met with applause from the gathered officials and citizens, marking a significant moment in Rome’s history under his leadership.
Source: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/264339/leo-xiv-before-the-mayor-of-rome-today-i-can-say-that-through-you-and-with-you-i-am-roman