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.

As Pope Leo XIV is formally inaugurated, he vows to work for unity and peace at a time of polarization in the Catholic Church and the wider world, with leaders including Vice President Vance and Ukraine's Zelensky in attendance.

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.