President Bola Ahmed Tinubu joined a host of global dignitaries in Rome for the inaugural mass of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, who was officially installed as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church on May 8.
The Chicago-born pontiff, the first-ever American to lead the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, made his first public appearance on Sunday at St Peter’s Square, riding through jubilant crowds in the iconic popemobile. Smiling, waving, and making the sign of the cross, Leo XIV greeted thousands of pilgrims and well-wishers ahead of the ceremonial mass.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance was also among the high-profile figures attending the solemn event, which began at 10:00 a.m. local time (0800 GMT).
The 69-year-old pope, who spent two decades as a missionary in Peru, presided over a ceremony rich in centuries-old traditions. He received the Fisherman’s Ring and pallium, symbolic emblems of the papacy, before delivering a homily expected to define the direction of his pontificate.
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Although relatively unknown to many Catholics, Pope Leo XIV has, in recent days, revealed glimpses of his leadership style. In meetings with journalists, clergy, and diplomats, he emphasized peace, social justice, and traditional Catholic values — including the sanctity of life and the family as a union between a man and a woman.
Local resident Inacia Lisboa, 71, originally from Cape Verde, expressed her admiration for the new pope: “He’s already entered my heart,” she said, adding that she hopes “he prays for us all, for peace in the world — we need it so much.”
The inaugural mass began with a solemn visit to the tomb of Saint Peter, the first pope and apostle of Christ, buried beneath the altar of St. Peter’s Basilica. Following this, Pope Leo XIV processed into the square accompanied by cardinals and clergy, as massive screens broadcast the event to thousands in attendance.
Though Pope Leo XIV succeeds the charismatic Pope Francis, his approach appears more reserved and traditional. He inherits a Church still grappling with internal reforms and the aftermath of child abuse scandals, alongside challenges of modern relevance.
At the conclusion of the mass, the pope greeted delegations from attending nations. However, it remains unclear whether private audiences will be granted to any of the world leaders present.
