In brief
In his inaugural Mass, Pope Leo XIV stresses unity and support for the underprivileged, signaling a strong continuity with Pope Francis' values.
Pope Leo XIV, marking a historic moment as the first pope from the United States, celebrated his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel on Friday. Aiming to connect with “ordinary people,” Leo emphasized the need for missionary outreach to address societal issues affecting the less fortunate. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, crossing the threshold from Cardinal to Pope, began this new chapter for the Catholic Church with a commitment to advocate for the poor and migrants. Despite his American roots, many cardinals highlighted Leo's extensive service in Peru and leadership roles at the Vatican as key factors during his selection. Cardinal Wilton Gregory pointed out that the conclave wasn’t driven by nationality but rather a collective effort to enhance Christian faith. With a quieter, yet steadfast approach, Leo XIV upholds his predecessor Pope Francis' vision of a church that engages with its community rather than commanding from above.
