Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from the United States, delivered a compelling inaugural Mass on Sunday at St. Peter’s Square, urging the global Catholic community to confront environmental degradation and social inequality.
The Mass was attended by tens of thousands of pilgrims and prominent global leaders, including US Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, the 69-year-old pope began his first official day by touring the Vatican in a white popemobile, waving and blessing the enthusiastic crowds.
In his homily, he addressed the Church’s mission in a fractured world: “In this our time, we still see too much discord, too many wounds caused by hatred, violence, prejudice, the fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the Earth’s resources and marginalises the poorest.”
Drawing from his extensive missionary work in Peru, Pope Leo XIV cautioned against insularity: “We are called to offer God’s love to everyone, to achieve that unity which does not cancel out differences but values the personal history of each person and the social and religious culture of every people.”
Though relatively unknown prior to his elevation, Prevost has quickly become a beacon of hope for peace and social justice. Inacia Lisboa, a 71-year-old pilgrim from Cape Verde residing in Rome, stated that Leo “had already entered my heart” and asked him to pray for peace worldwide.
The Mass drew an impressive international delegation, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and other heads of state and royalty.
Security was tight, with thousands of police officers deployed, rooftop snipers, and anti-drone measures ensuring the safety of all participants.
Pope Leo XIV acknowledged his humble beginnings and the gravity of his role: “I was chosen, without any merit of my own, and now, with fear and trembling, I come to you as a brother who desires to be the servant of your faith and your joy.”
The day’s rituals also included a visit to Saint Peter’s tomb and the reception of the pallium and fisherman’s ring, symbols of his spiritual authority.
As the Church continues to face internal and external challenges, Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass marks a hopeful start focused on unity, justice, and care for creation.
