On May 18, 2025, Pope Leo XIV was formally inaugurated as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church during a solemn Mass in St. Peter's Square, attended by approximately 200,000 faithful, including global dignitaries such as U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV is the first American to ascend to the papacy. In his homily, he emphasized the need for unity within the Church and a renewed missionary spirit among its members. He stated, "We are living in a time of great discord, with too many wounds caused by hatred, violence, prejudice, and the fear of difference." He urged Catholics to "discard feelings of superiority" and to embrace a spirit of openness and service.

The ceremony included traditional rites such as the bestowal of the Fisherman's Ring and the pallium, symbolizing the Pope's authority and pastoral responsibility. Pope Leo XIV also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, expressing a desire to continue his focus on the marginalized and to foster a Church that is both compassionate and inclusive.

In addition to addressing internal Church matters, Pope Leo XIV highlighted global issues, expressing strong support for Ukraine and calling for peace in conflict zones like Gaza and Myanmar. He met privately with President Volodymyr Zelensky, discussing the Vatican's potential role in facilitating peace talks.

Pope Leo XIV's inauguration marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church, blending traditional rituals with a call for unity and active engagement in addressing contemporary global challenges.