Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff, delivered a moving inauguration Mass on May 18, 2025, at St. Peter’s Square, witnessed by over 100,000 attendees, world leaders, and clergy. He was met with joyous cheers as he greeted the crowd, kissed a child, and delivered a heartfelt homily urging unity, environmental stewardship, and compassion for the marginalized. He acknowledged the weight of his new role, humbly stating that he was chosen “without any merit,” and prayed for global peace, especially for those suffering in Ukraine and Gaza.

A highlight of the Mass was the symbolic presentation of the Ring of the Fisherman, representing his authority as Peter’s successor. The one-of-a-kind ring, engraved with “Leo XIV” and his coat of arms, moved the pope deeply. He also received the pallium — a woolen band signifying his duty as shepherd to the faithful — to great applause. His message blended tradition with modern urgency, anchoring his role as both a spiritual leader and a global figure in turbulent times.

Notably, the event carried emotional weight due to the absence of Pope Leo’s older brother, John Prevost, and U.S. President Donald Trump. While Prevost had visited earlier, he chose not to attend the formal ceremony. Trump, occupied with diplomatic visits in the Middle East, sent Vice President JD Vance in his place. Trump had previously attended Pope Francis’s funeral in April but offered praise for Pope Leo’s election from abroad, calling it a proud moment for the United States.

Despite these absences, the inauguration drew international recognition, with leaders such as Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky, Canada’s Mark Carney, and Australia’s Anthony Albanese present. The ceremony honored both Pope Leo’s roots in Peru and his new global role, blending sacred ritual with calls for peace, humility, and unity. As he embarks on his papacy, Pope Leo XIV’s words and presence have already signaled a new chapter for the Church — one both grounded in faith and open to the world’s greatest needs.