Pope Leo XIV began his tenure as bishop of Rome with a Mass at the historic St. John Lateran cathedral, where he emphasized the importance of prayer, conversion, and listening to achieve church unity. During his homily, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the significance of praying “on our knees” and committing to constant conversion, allowing individuals to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit and understand others as their brothers and sisters.
Pope Francis’ dedication to listening and the maternal dimension of the Church were also emphasized by the new pope. The Diocese of Rome’s process of listening to the world and its communities was encouraged to respond to current challenges and propose initiatives of evangelization and charity.
Following his homily, Pope Leo XIV appeared at the balcony, where he wished peace to the crowd and encouraged them to be living witnesses of Christ’s hope. He then visited the Basilica of St. Mary Major, venerated a Marian icon, and prayed at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
The new pope expressed his love for the faithful of Rome and his desire to share their joys and sorrows with them. In a meeting with Rome’s mayor, he emphasized his responsibility to serve all members of the Diocese of Rome, including the common good of society.
Source: https://www.usccb.org/news/2025/communion-requires-prayer-listening-conversion-pope-says