Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, delivered a powerful message of unity and condemnation of economic exploitation during his inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday. The event was attended by world leaders, royalty, and tens of thousands of believers.
Leo XIV arrived at the Vatican on the popemobile and was greeted with cheers from the huge crowds. He toured the square in his specially designed motor vehicle for the first time before beginning the two-hour long liturgy.
During the service, Leo XIV emphasized the importance of unity within the Catholic Church, calling for an end to “religious propaganda” and power plays. He also condemned economic systems that exploit the Earth’s resources and marginalize the poorest.
The pontiff echoed the humility of his predecessor, Pope Francis, saying he was not chosen for this role due to his own merits but rather as a servant of the Church and its faithful.
Leo XIV called for “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine and offered prayers for Gaza, where many are struggling with hunger. The Mass also included the formal bestowing of symbols of office, including the pallium and fisherman’s ring, which symbolize the Pope’s pastoral care and authority as the successor of St. Peter.
The Vatican has released details of the new pope’s ring, which features an image of St. Peter on the outside band and “Leo XIV” and his coat of arms on the inside.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/05/18/europe/pope-leo-inauguration-mass-intl