*The historical inauguration of Pope Leo XIV attracted thousands, with a fervent message for peace amid global turmoil, particularly concerning Ukraine.*
**Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Peace and Unity During Inauguration Mass in Vatican City**
**Pope Leo XIV Emphasizes Peace and Unity During Inauguration Mass in Vatican City**
*Ukrainian President Zelensky attends as the new pope calls for an end to violence and lighter burdens on the marginalized.*
As Vatican City buzzed with excitement, Pope Leo XIV officiated his inauguration Mass, delivering a poignant message focused on peace amidst conflict. The newly appointed pontiff, who expressed deep concern over the ongoing war in Ukraine, actively engaged with world leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during the service.
In a powerful prayer marking the occasion, Pope Leo stated, "the martyred Ukraine is waiting for negotiations for a just and lasting peace to finally happen.” The Pope’s first address as leader of the Catholic Church was directed not only at his congregation but also served as a public statement about global issues affecting the vulnerable, specifically condemning “hatred, violence, prejudice, and the fear of difference.”
Among the thousands in attendance, which included prominent figures like US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, pilgrims traveled from various places to witness this historic event. The Pope was greeted warmly by attendees, including a German pilgrim, Michelle, who expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s very crazy because there's so many people. I wanted to see the Pope.”
Notably, Zebulon, an American tourist, shared his pride, stating, “I am very proud to see the first Pope from the United States. He’s gonna be a wonderful Pope.”
As the Mass progressed, Pope Leo XIV denounced economic systems that exploit Earth’s resources and urged for solidarity with the marginalized. The sense of hope surged through the crowd, captivated by the Pope’s vision of a compassionate church.
The ceremony culminated with the official appointment of the Pope, who donned a pallium garment and received the Ring of the Fisherman, symbols of his papal authority. Addressing the gathered faithful, he extended blessings, reinforcing his commitment to unity and peace across the globe. The inaugural Mass marked the dawn of what many believe to be a transformative leadership rooted in empathy and resilience.
In a powerful prayer marking the occasion, Pope Leo stated, "the martyred Ukraine is waiting for negotiations for a just and lasting peace to finally happen.” The Pope’s first address as leader of the Catholic Church was directed not only at his congregation but also served as a public statement about global issues affecting the vulnerable, specifically condemning “hatred, violence, prejudice, and the fear of difference.”
Among the thousands in attendance, which included prominent figures like US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, pilgrims traveled from various places to witness this historic event. The Pope was greeted warmly by attendees, including a German pilgrim, Michelle, who expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s very crazy because there's so many people. I wanted to see the Pope.”
Notably, Zebulon, an American tourist, shared his pride, stating, “I am very proud to see the first Pope from the United States. He’s gonna be a wonderful Pope.”
As the Mass progressed, Pope Leo XIV denounced economic systems that exploit Earth’s resources and urged for solidarity with the marginalized. The sense of hope surged through the crowd, captivated by the Pope’s vision of a compassionate church.
The ceremony culminated with the official appointment of the Pope, who donned a pallium garment and received the Ring of the Fisherman, symbols of his papal authority. Addressing the gathered faithful, he extended blessings, reinforcing his commitment to unity and peace across the globe. The inaugural Mass marked the dawn of what many believe to be a transformative leadership rooted in empathy and resilience.
