With solemnity and tradition, Pope Leo XIV commenced his inauguration Mass earlier today, signifying the formal beginning of his pontificate.
The Pope arrived in St Peter’s Square in the white Popemobile, waving to the crowds.
He was then given the Ring of the Fisherman by a cardinal. This special ring is a symbol of his role, and it’s a tradition that dates back to the time of Saint Peter, who was a fisherman.
Pope Leo also received the pallium, a strip of lambswool, symbolising his role as a shepherd.
In his sermon, the 267th pontiff called for unity within the church, and said it is “with fear and trembling” that he approaches the church’s followers “as a brother”.
Pope Leo XIV also highlighted his concerns about the war in Ukraine in his prayer at the end of the service, saying “the martyred Ukraine is waiting for negotiations for a just and lasting peace to finally happen”.
Following the inaugural mass, the Vatican said the new pontiff is to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. (BBC)