By Emeka Blast 
Tens of thousands of faithful, along with dignitaries from around the world as Pope Leo XIV was installed
Today, May 18, 2025, marks a historic moment in the Catholic Church as Pope Leo XIV is officially installed during a solemn Mass in St. Peter’s Square. This ceremony signifies the commencement of his papacy, following his election on May 8. Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago in 1955, is the first American and second Latin American pope, holding dual citizenship with the United States and Peru.
The inauguration Mass was attended by tens of thousands of faithful, along with dignitaries from around the world, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and leaders from Israel, Peru, Nigeria, and several European nations.
Before the Mass, Pope Leo XIV made his first appearance in the popemobile, waving to the enthusiastic crowd, which cheered and chanted “Viva il Papa!” The square was adorned with a sea of flags, including those of the United States, Peru, and the Holy See.
During the Mass, Pope Leo XIV received the traditional symbols of papal authority: the Pallium and the Fisherman’s Ring. He delivered a homily emphasizing unity within the Church and a leadership rooted in service, inspired by St. Peter.
For those interested in official images from the ceremony, the Vatican has released a new photograph of Pope Leo XIV, which is available for free download. This image features him wearing the red mozzetta, embroidered stole, rochet, and golden pectoral cross.
This inauguration marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church, with Pope Leo XIV at the helm, bringing a blend of tradition and reform to the papacy.
Emmanuel Dominic