Pope Leo XIV officially began his papacy with an inaugural Mass at St Peter’s Square in Vatican City, drawing tens of thousands of faithful and dignitaries, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, U.S. Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Following the Mass, President Zelensky met with the Pope and expressed gratitude for his support of Ukraine, praising the pontiff’s “clear voice in defence of a just and lasting peace.” In a message posted on Telegram, Zelensky also thanked the Vatican for its willingness to act as a neutral ground for direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
Pope Leo’s inaugural address echoed this commitment to peace, denouncing war, hatred, violence, and economic systems that marginalize the poor and damage the environment. He specifically highlighted the suffering caused by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and urged the global community to pursue unity and compassion.
The Pope reiterated his intent to lead with humility, pledging “never to yield to the temptation to be an autocrat.” His remarks come shortly after he offered the Vatican as a venue for peace talks, following President Putin’s rejection of Zelensky’s invitation for negotiations in Turkey.
In a solemn and symbolic moment during the inauguration, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines placed the Ring of the Fisherman on the Pope’s finger, while a pallium, symbolizing the Pope’s pastoral authority, was draped over his shoulders. Pope Leo then used the book of the Gospels to bless the people.
Earlier, pilgrims and tourists alike filled St Peter’s Square, many cheering as the Pope appeared in his popemobile. Joe, a tourist from Missouri, expressed joy at witnessing history. “It’s very special,” he said. “I’m not Catholic, but this is inspiring no matter your denomination.”
Pia, a Chilean philosophy professor in Rome, described the atmosphere as one of renewed hope. She recalled the Pope’s first words after his election: “Let the peace be with you,” followed by, “Don’t be afraid.” According to her, this signaled a new era of optimism in the Church.
As Pope Leo XIV begins his pontificate, his message of peace, humility, and solidarity sets a clear tone for the challenges ahead, particularly as global tensions and humanitarian crises continue to mount.
Written By Rodney Mbua
