The Vatican has announced that the Inauguration Mass for Pope Leo XIV will be celebrated on Sunday, May 18, at 10:00 a.m. (Rome time) in St. Peter’s Square. This event will mark the formal beginning of his pontificate, following his election last Thursday as the first American-born pope.

A Historic Ceremony

The ceremony will be attended by religious and political leaders from around the world, and a large crowd is expected. During the Mass, traditional rituals will be performed, including the presentation of the pallium and the Fisherman’s Ring, symbols of papal authority.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, is a member of the Order of Saint Augustine and holds dual U.S. and Peruvian citizenship. Before his election, he served in missionary and episcopal roles in Peru, and in 2023, he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops by Pope Francis.

His First Homily and Commitment to the Faith

In his first homily as pontiff, delivered in the Sistine Chapel, he expressed concern about a society that prioritizes technology, money, and success over the Christian faith. He urged the Church to be a light amid the world’s darkness and promised to lead with humility and commitment.

Pope Leo XIV’s Detailed Agenda

• May 10 (Saturday): Meeting with the Cardinals.
• May 11 (Sunday): Recitation of the Regina Caeli from the Central Loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.
• May 12 (Monday): Meeting with the international press.
• May 16 (Friday): Meeting with the Diplomatic Corps (Heads of Mission).
• May 18 (Sunday): Inauguration Mass in St. Peter’s Square (10:00 a.m.).
• May 20 (Tuesday): Inauguration of the Papal Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls.
• May 21 (Wednesday): First General Audience at the Vatican.
• May 24 (Saturday): Meeting with the Roman Curia and Vatican City employees.
• May 25 (Sunday):
  • Prayer of the Regina Caeli.
  • Inauguration of the Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran.
  • Inauguration of the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major.

The Context of the Holy Year 2025

The beginning of Leo XIV’s pontificate coincides with the Holy Year 2025, a jubilee that will draw millions of pilgrims to Rome. This context presents challenges and opportunities for the new Pope, who will have to address issues such as Church reform, the role of women, and interfaith dialogue.

The election of Leo XIV has been enthusiastically received in various parts of the world, especially in North and Latin America, where his pastoral experience and focus on social justice are valued. His election represents continuity with the legacy of Pope Francis and renewed hope for the Catholic Church.

The Vatican invites all the faithful and pilgrims to join in this solemn celebration, a historic moment for the Church and the world.

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