First Mass: A Call to Faith

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first mass on Friday morning in the Sistine Chapel. The private mass was attended by cardinals of all ages,including those over 80 who were not eligible to vote in the conclave.

During his homily, which was broadcast live by the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of faith in a world increasingly focused on secular pursuits.He stated that the Church could be a beacon to reach areas suffering a lack of faith, which focus on technology, money, success, power or pleasure.

Upcoming public Appearances

• Sunday Prayer: Pope Leo XIV will deliver a prayer in front of St. Peter’s Basilica at noon (1000 GMT). This weekly event typically includes comments on current world events. He made his initial public appearance on Thursday evening from the balcony of St. peter’s, addressing tens of thousands in the square after his election.
• Meeting with the Media: On Monday at 10 a.m. (0800 GMT), Pope Leo XIV will hold an audience with the world’s press in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican.

Inauguration Details

The inauguration mass for Pope Leo XIV is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, in St. Peter’s Square. World leaders are expected to attend this significant event.

During the mass, Pope Leo XIV will receive two important symbols of his office:

• The Fisherman’s Ring: This papal ring is a signet historically used to seal official documents. Now,it is a ceremonial symbol of the papacy. Traditionally, the ring is destroyed or defaced after a pope’s death.
• The Pallium: A circular band of finely woven white wool worn around the neck, the pallium symbolizes the mission to uphold Church unity.

Future Engagements

• Papal Basilicas Visit: Pope Leo XIV is expected to visit the other papal basilicas in Rome, including Santa Maria Maggiore, where his predecessor, Francis, is buried.
• General Audience: His first weekly general audience will be held on May 21.
• Meeting with the curia: On May 24,he will meet with the Roman Curia,the Church’s governing body,and Vatican City State employees.

First Trip: A Sign of Things to Come?

The destination of Pope Leo XIV’s first trip will be closely watched as an indicator of his papal priorities.

His predecessor, Francis, had planned to visit Turkey for the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. Pope Leo XIV might choose to continue with this plan. however, it is worth noting that upon his election in 2013, Pope Francis surprised many by choosing the small Italian island of Lampedusa, a gateway for African migrants to Europe, as his first trip. Defending migrants became one of the pillars of his pontificate.

Residence: A Break from Tradition?

In 2013, Pope Francis broke with tradition by choosing not to reside in the papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace. Instead, he lived in a modest apartment in the Santa Marta guesthouse within the Vatican. He remained there until his death last month.

The gesture was acclaimed by supporters of a humble pope but attracted criticism from conservatives who accused him of divesting the papacy of a sacred element.
An observer on Pope Francis’s decision

All eyes are now on whether Pope Leo XIV will follow in Francis’s footsteps or return to the conventional papal apartments.

FAQ About Pope Leo XIV

Who is Pope Leo XIV?

Pope Leo XIV is Robert Francis Prevost, the first U.S.-born pope.

When was he elected?

He was elected on Thursday evening by fellow cardinals.

When is his inauguration?

His inauguration mass will take place on Sunday, May 18, in St. Peter’s Square.

Where will he live?

It is currently unknown whether he will live in the papal apartments or the Santa Marta guesthouse,following in the footsteps of Pope Francis.