Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from the United States, has officially begun his papal ministry with a solemn inaugural Mass in the Sistine Chapel today.
The highly anticipated event, attended by cardinals, clergy, and dignitaries, marks the start of his leadership at the helm of the Catholic Church.
Born Robert Prevost in Chicago, the 68-year-old former missionary and Archbishop has spent years serving among the poor and marginalized, particularly in Peru.
His election on Thursday made history as he became the first North American to ascend to the papacy, an event celebrated across the world.
World leaders and Catholic faithful have voiced their support for Leo XIV, praising his pastoral experience and reformist approach. U.S.
President Donald Trump hailed his election as a “great honor,” reflecting national pride in the first American pope.
In Peru, where Leo XIV ministered for years, Catholics have expressed pride in his elevation.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr offered prayers for his success, hoping he will continue to bring the Church closer to disadvantaged communities.
Meanwhile, Speaker of the Philippine House of Representatives, Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, emphasized the new Pope’s call for peace and healing, saying, “The challenges before the world are great, but so too is the light that now shines from Rome.”
