In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Robert Francis Prevost was elected Pope on May 8, 2025, taking the name Leone XIV. Just a day after his election, he made a surprise visit to the Palazzo del Sant'Uffizio, where he has lived since 2023, marking his first public appearance as the new Pontiff.
The newly elected Pope greeted a crowd of faithful in the courtyard, taking photos and imparting blessings. In a light-hearted moment, he signed a Bible for a young girl and jokingly asked, "What day is it today?" This interaction showcased his approachable demeanor and set a warm tone for his papacy.
Leone XIV's election comes after a swift Conclave, and one of his first official acts will be to meet with the entire College of Cardinals, including those over 80 who were unable to vote. This meeting could take place as early as tomorrow, May 10, 2025, emphasizing the new Pope's intention to connect with the Church's leadership promptly.
Following the tradition established by his predecessors, Leone XIV is set to hold his first public audience on the third day of his pontificate. This event, scheduled for May 11, 2025, will cater to media and journalists from around the world, allowing the Pope to present himself to the global community.
In his first speech from the Loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, Leone XIV expressed a desire for "disarmed and disarming peace," highlighting his commitment to global harmony. He also made a prayer for world peace, setting a spiritual tone for his leadership.
Today, May 9, 2025, the new Pope will celebrate his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel with the Cardinals at 11:00 AM. This ceremony will mark the official beginning of his papal ministry, following a tradition upheld by both Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. Benedict XVI celebrated his inaugural Mass five days after his election, while Pope Francis did so six days later.
Leone XIV's first Regina Coeli will occur on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at noon from the Loggia Centrale, further engaging with the public during this Easter season. This event replaces the traditional Angelus during the Paschal period and will be an opportunity for the Pope to connect with the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square.
As the head of the Vatican City State, the Pope maintains diplomatic relations with 184 countries. His first meeting with the diplomatic corps will be an essential event to outline his priorities in both diplomatic and pastoral fields.
Leone XIV's papacy is already drawing attention for its potential direction. He has indicated a focus on caring for the marginalized, echoing themes from his predecessors. In his inaugural speech, he referenced the importance of serving others, particularly the vulnerable, aligning with the Church's ongoing mission to advocate for those in need.
His first public outing at the Palazzo del Sant'Uffizio was well-received, with many expressing excitement about the new Pope's approachability and warmth. Videos shared on Vatican social media channels captured the moment, showing the Pope interacting with the crowd and sharing heartfelt exchanges.
As the Catholic Church enters this new chapter with Leone XIV at the helm, the faithful are eager to see how his vision will unfold. The upcoming events, including his first Mass and Regina Coeli, are highly anticipated, with many hoping for a renewed focus on peace and community engagement.
The Holy Year 2025, which was inaugurated by Pope Francis on December 24, 2024, will also continue under Leone XIV's leadership. It is expected that he will bring his unique perspective to this significant period in the Church's calendar, emphasizing themes of reconciliation and renewal.
In a world that often feels divided, Leone XIV's call for peace and service resonates deeply. His first acts as Pope reflect a commitment to fostering a Church that is inclusive and compassionate, echoing the sentiments expressed by his predecessors while carving out his path.
As the days unfold, the global community will be watching closely, eager to witness how Leone XIV will navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. His focus on dialogue and connection with both the Church and the world will be crucial in shaping his papacy and the future of the Catholic Church.
