WATCH: Pope Leo XIV rides the popemobile for the first time, ahead of installation
Pope Leo XIV rode through St. Peter's Square in the popemobile, greeted by tens of thousands in the Vatican's largest gathering since Pope Francis' funeral on April 26, reported Reuters. The open-roof vehicle paused twice as the newly elected pontiff blessed three babies during his first public appearance in the iconic ride. Crowds chanted 'Viva il Papa' and 'Papa Leone' while waving US and Peruvian flags to honour the new pope's dual heritage.
Sunday's Mass, marking the formal start of his papacy, features prayers in multiple languages, including Latin, Arabic, Chinese and Polish. As part of the ceremony, Leo will receive the pallium and the fisherman's ring — traditional symbols of papal authority.
Leo, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, was elected May 8 after a brief conclave. The 69-year-old Chicago native, who also holds Peruvian citizenship, becomes the first US-born pope and the first with ties to Peru.
The Popemobile ride of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
Ahead of the Inauguration of his Pontificate, Pope Leo XIV was greeted with joy from the faithful in St. Peter's Square and all the way to the Tiber, with kissing babies, shouts of 'Viva Papa', and 'USA, USA, USA!' pic.twitter.com/scp6RfW5pd
— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 18, 2025
'Peace be with you all,' were Leo's first public words from the Vatican balcony on election night. He has since pledged to make 'every effort' for peace, offering the Vatican as a mediator in global conflicts. 'War is never inevitable,' he told leaders of Eastern Catholic Churches on May 14.
US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are attending the inaugural Mass, along with leaders from Ukraine, Peru, Israel, Nigeria, Canada, Australia, and top EU officials. Spanish royals King Felipe and Queen Letizia are also expected to be present.
Leo succeeds Pope Francis, who died April 21 after 12 years leading the Church through reform efforts and internal challenges.
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