Tens of thousands came to St. Peter’s Square to mark the official start of the pontificate of the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. Vice President JD Vance was among the dignitaries who attended.

Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass at St. Peter’s Square is an ancient ritual filled with symbolism that connects back to Peter, Jesus’ apostle, and his special mission as head of the Catholic Church.

Pope Leo XIV delivered a message of "love and unity" during his inaugural mass on Sunday. Leo held his inaugural Mass on Sunday, in what marked the official start of his pontificate. It came after the Chicago native was chosen as the new leader of the Catholic Church on May 8,