Pope Leo XIV officially began his reign during an inaugural Mass attended by a remarkable array of world leaders, showcasing the pope's significant influence on international relations and global issues.
World Leaders Gather for Pope Leo XIV’s Inaugural Mass
World Leaders Gather for Pope Leo XIV’s Inaugural Mass
A historic assembly of global figures marks the start of Pope Leo XIV's papacy.
May 18, 2025, 5:16 a.m. ET
Presidents, prime ministers, and members of royalty filled St. Peter's Square on Sunday morning for the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV, a pivotal ceremony that signifies the commencement of his leadership over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. Among those in attendance was U.S. Vice President JD Vance, highlighting the connection between the papacy and world governance.
Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio traveled to Rome, where they expressed congratulations to Pope Leo on his election, celebrating his roots that trace back to the United States. However, uncertainties loom about possible future interactions, especially as Leo had previously made comments that seemed to critique Vance's interpretation of Catholic teachings.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was also present, having recently engaged in a constructive dialogue with Pope Leo. The conversation primarily revolved around proposals for a cease-fire in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Zelensky described the discussion as "very warm and truly substantial." The pope has since proposed to host peace talks between Ukraine and Russia at the Vatican, a move that signifies his intention to be a mediator in global conflicts.
In attendance was Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Pope Leo in efforts directed toward global solidarity and sustainability. Carney's prior absence at Pope Francis' funeral, due to timing issues related to Canada’s election, made this occasion particularly significant for the Canadian leader.
Peru's President Dina Boluarte led a delegation from her nation, celebrating the pope's deep ties to Peru, where he has spent considerable time during his ecclesiastical career.
Italian leaders, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella, extolled Pope Leo's spiritual legacy. Meloni affirmed Italy’s dedication to supporting the Vatican's initiatives, particularly regarding ethical considerations in artificial intelligence.
The assembly of world leaders also featured representatives from various countries, including Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Argentina's President Javier Milei, and Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, underscoring the universal relevance of the papacy across nations.
The inaugural Mass not only marks a new chapter for the Vatican but also sets a tone for the geopolitical landscape with Pope Leo XIV at the helm.
Yan Zhuang is a Times reporter in Seoul who covers breaking news.
Presidents, prime ministers, and members of royalty filled St. Peter's Square on Sunday morning for the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV, a pivotal ceremony that signifies the commencement of his leadership over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. Among those in attendance was U.S. Vice President JD Vance, highlighting the connection between the papacy and world governance.
Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio traveled to Rome, where they expressed congratulations to Pope Leo on his election, celebrating his roots that trace back to the United States. However, uncertainties loom about possible future interactions, especially as Leo had previously made comments that seemed to critique Vance's interpretation of Catholic teachings.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was also present, having recently engaged in a constructive dialogue with Pope Leo. The conversation primarily revolved around proposals for a cease-fire in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Zelensky described the discussion as "very warm and truly substantial." The pope has since proposed to host peace talks between Ukraine and Russia at the Vatican, a move that signifies his intention to be a mediator in global conflicts.
In attendance was Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Pope Leo in efforts directed toward global solidarity and sustainability. Carney's prior absence at Pope Francis' funeral, due to timing issues related to Canada’s election, made this occasion particularly significant for the Canadian leader.
Peru's President Dina Boluarte led a delegation from her nation, celebrating the pope's deep ties to Peru, where he has spent considerable time during his ecclesiastical career.
Italian leaders, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella, extolled Pope Leo's spiritual legacy. Meloni affirmed Italy’s dedication to supporting the Vatican's initiatives, particularly regarding ethical considerations in artificial intelligence.
The assembly of world leaders also featured representatives from various countries, including Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Argentina's President Javier Milei, and Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, underscoring the universal relevance of the papacy across nations.
The inaugural Mass not only marks a new chapter for the Vatican but also sets a tone for the geopolitical landscape with Pope Leo XIV at the helm.
Yan Zhuang is a Times reporter in Seoul who covers breaking news.
