On Sunday, in a momentous occasion at St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural homily, marking the beginning of his papacy. In his heartfelt message, the pope acknowledged the extraordinary times he has been elevated to the papacy, stating that he would approach his responsibilities with "fear and trembling." Despite the challenges ahead, he emphasized his commitment to serve all with faith and joy, embodying the essence of his new role.
The Holy Mass for the Beginning of the Pontificate was attended by approximately 100,000 people, as noted by the Vatican's press office. The newly appointed pope traveled through St. Peter's Square in an open-topped popemobile, allowing the faithful to catch a glimpse of their new leader. His homily addressed the pressing issues of our times, including the rampant discord and wounds inflicted by hatred, violence, and prejudice.
Pope Leo XIV urged the world's 1.4 billion Catholics to adopt a missionary spirit rather than retreat into insular groups. He called on the faithful to reject any sense of superiority and to extend God's love to everyone. "We are called to offer God's love to everyone," he said, advocating for a unity that respects individual differences and the unique cultural and social histories of diverse peoples.
The mass not only marked the official beginning of Leo's papacy but also drew a host of dignitaries. Among those in attendance were U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The gathering also included representatives from various faiths, including leaders from the Ecumenical, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Zoroastrian, and Jain communities, showcasing a collective commitment to interfaith dialogue and cooperation.
Before the mass, Pope Leo XIV engaged in meetings with significant global leaders, including a handshake with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Vatican indicated that a private audience with Zelenskyy was anticipated following the mass. Additionally, the pope met with Peruvian President Dina Boluarte, further emphasizing his commitment to global diplomacy and humanitarian issues.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, is the first American pope in history, elected on May 8. During the mass, he received the symbolic Ring of the Fisherman from Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, a significant tradition that honors Saint Peter, the first pope. Leo also took a moment to pay tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. "His death filled our hearts with sadness," Leo remarked, expressing a sense of continuity and shared mission.
Reflecting on the recent papal conclave, Pope Leo XIV shared insights about the experience of the 133 cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel. He described the palpable presence of the Holy Spirit, which fostered a sense of harmony among the electors, likening it to musical instruments coming together in a single melody. "I was chosen, without any merit of my own," he humbly acknowledged, emphasizing his desire to serve the faithful and walk with them on the path of God's love.
As the mass concluded and the crowds swelled to around 200,000, Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude to those who traveled from afar to witness this historic event. In his final remarks before the Regina Caeli Prayer, he stressed the importance of supporting those in need. "In the joy of faith and communion, we cannot forget our brothers and sisters who are suffering because of war," he said, highlighting the dire situations in Gaza, Myanmar, and Ukraine. His call for compassion resonated deeply, urging the faithful to remember the plight of the most vulnerable.
This inaugural mass not only marks a new chapter in the Catholic Church but also sets the tone for Pope Leo XIV's papacy, focused on unity, compassion, and the mission of love that transcends borders and differences.
