In brief
In an extraordinary event, heads of state and dignitaries from around the globe congregated in St. Peter’s Square to witness the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV, marking the start of his papacy.
On May 18, 2025, prominent figures such as U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky among others, gathered for this momentous occasion. The service officially launched Pope Leo XIV’s leadership over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. Vice President Vance, along with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressed warm welcomes to the new Pope, although their future interactions remain uncertain, particularly after some pre-election tensions regarding theological interpretations surfaced. Meanwhile, President Zelensky had a pivotal discussion with the Pope, addressing concepts of peace amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with the Papal invitation for peace talks resonating deeply. Prime Minister Mark Carney from Canada emphasized a collaborative future with Pope Leo, while Peruvian President Dina Boluarte celebrated the Pope's connection to her country, reflecting on his dedication to the underserved.In attendance were also leaders like Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who hailed the Pope's spiritual legacy, alongside representatives from various nations including Australia, Belgium, the EU, and more, showing the global significance of this papal inauguration.
