Pope Leo XIV's First Sunday: Mass at the Vatican, prayer before thousands, and opening of the papal apartment
Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Sunday as pontiff with a Mass in St. Peter's Square, a moving prayer before thousands of faithful, and the symbolic opening of his official residence.
Under a clear sky and in front of a crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first public Mass as Supreme Pontiff this Sunday, marking a deeply symbolic and inspiring moment at the beginning of his pontificate.
From early in the morning, thousands of faithful from around the world gathered on the Vatican esplanade to witness the homily of the new leader of the Catholic Church, who was elected less than a week ago in a historic conclave.
During the Eucharistic celebration, the Pope delivered a message focused on unity, hope, and commitment to the most vulnerable, elements that are already beginning to define his pastoral style.
“The Church must not be afraid to open the doors of her heart to the suffering world. The Gospel is not a refuge, it is a call to come forth,” he proclaimed.
After Mass, the Holy Father led the traditional Angelus prayer from the window of the Apostolic Palace, receiving cheers and songs of joy from the crowd. This gesture also marked the symbolic opening of the papal apartment, in an act charged with institutional and spiritual significance.
Leo XIV, formerly the American Cardinal Robert Prevost, has been enthusiastically received for his humble yet firm tone and his clear orientation toward a Church more committed to social justice, peace, and interreligious dialogue.
The Vatican confirmed that the Pope will spend his first weeks in Rome meeting with leaders of religious congregations, ambassadors, and social actors, outlining his roadmap for the coming years.
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