Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege

Pope Leo XIV holds first Mass

Image Credits: UnsplashImage Credits: Unsplash
  • Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, celebrated his first Mass as pope at the Sistine Chapel after being elected on May 8, 2025.
  • As the first American pope, his election has sparked global celebration, particularly in the U.S. and Peru, where he previously served.
  • His inaugural homily emphasized themes of unity, service, and social justice, continuing the legacy of Pope Francis.

[WORLD] Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, celebrated his inaugural Mass as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church today, May 9, 2025, at the Sistine Chapel. This historic occasion marks the beginning of his papacy, following his election on May 8, 2025, as the first American pope in the Church's history. The Mass was broadcast live, allowing millions of Catholics worldwide to witness the event and join in the celebration.

Background on Pope Leo XIV

Born in Chicago in 1955, Robert Prevost dedicated much of his life to religious service, particularly in Peru, where he served as a missionary and later as Bishop of Chiclayo. He was elevated to cardinal in 2023 and appointed as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. His election as pope was seen as a continuation of the inclusive and reformist legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis. The choice of the papal name Leo XIV is a nod to Pope Leo XIII, known for his advocacy for workers' rights and social justice.

The Inaugural Mass

The Mass, held in the Sistine Chapel, was attended by cardinals, Vatican officials, and invited guests. Pope Leo XIV delivered his homily in Italian and Spanish, emphasizing themes of peace, unity, and dialogue. He also referenced his missionary work in Peru, highlighting the importance of service to the marginalized. The ceremony included traditional elements, such as the chanting of "Tu Es Petrus" by the Sistine Chapel Choir and the playing of the Papal Anthem.

Global Reactions

The election of Pope Leo XIV has garnered widespread attention and praise. In the United States, President Biden and former President Trump both extended congratulations, acknowledging the significance of having an American pope. In Peru, where Pope Leo XIV served for many years, his election is seen as a moment of national pride. Catholics around the world have expressed hope that his leadership will continue the Church's focus on social justice and inclusivity.

Looking Ahead

As Pope Leo XIV embarks on his papacy, he is expected to continue the work of his predecessor, Pope Francis, in promoting dialogue, social justice, and inclusivity within the Church. His upcoming activities include delivering his first Sunday blessing and potentially traveling to Turkey for the anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea.

The celebration of Pope Leo XIV's first Mass as pontiff marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church. His election and subsequent Mass reflect a commitment to unity, service, and social justice, values that resonate with Catholics worldwide. As his papacy unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how he navigates the challenges and opportunities facing the Church in the 21st century.


Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege

Read More

Culture World
Image Credits: Unsplash
CultureMay 14, 2025 at 5:00:00 PM

Are employers pushing down on remote work in order to induce staff to quit?

[UNITED STATES] As return-to-office mandates intensify across corporate America, questions mount over whether companies are using these policies as a covert strategy to...

Economy World
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMay 14, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

Trump's tariff plans and their timing

[WORLD] As President Donald Trump’s administration continues to reshape U.S. trade policy, the timing and implementation of tariffs have become a central issue...

Health & Wellness World
Image Credits: Unsplash
Health & WellnessMay 14, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

Dealing with a toxic boss

[WORLD] A toxic boss can significantly impact your mental and physical well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Recognizing the signs and implementing...

Relationships World
Image Credits: Unsplash
RelationshipsMay 14, 2025 at 3:30:00 PM

Newborns establish memories that are difficult to recover later

[WORLD] A groundbreaking study has shown that infants as young as 12 months can form memories, challenging long-held beliefs about early childhood cognition....

Loans World
Image Credits: Unsplash
LoansMay 14, 2025 at 12:30:00 PM

Student loan delinquencies surge as Federal collections resume

[UNITED STATES] Americans now collectively hold a record $18.2 trillion in debt, spanning credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, home equity lines of credit,...

Economy World
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMay 14, 2025 at 12:30:00 PM

Hong Kong exporters rush to US amid temporary tariff relief

[WORLD] Hong Kong is set to experience a sharp uptick in exports over the next two months as merchants accelerate shipments to the...

Politics World
Image Credits: Unsplash
PoliticsMay 14, 2025 at 12:30:00 PM

Malaysia seeks reparations from Russia over MH17 tragedy

[MALAYSIA] As Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim embarks on a four-day official visit to Russia, pressure is mounting on Malaysia’s government to demand reparations...

Tax World
Image Credits: Unsplash
TaxMay 14, 2025 at 12:00:00 PM

Trump’s tax cuts and their lasting impact

[UNITED STATES] The Trump administration’s 2017 tax reform, commonly known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), promised significant tax relief for...

Health & Wellness World
Image Credits: Unsplash
Health & WellnessMay 14, 2025 at 11:30:00 AM

Fitting exercise into a busy workday

[WORLD] You are too busy to exercise, right? Your job absorbs all of your time. You are burdened by career and familial obligations....

Tech World
Image Credits: Unsplash
TechMay 14, 2025 at 11:00:00 AM

Hong Kong stocks climb on JD.com earnings as tech giants await spotlight

[WORLD] Hong Kong stocks saw gains as JD.com posted its fastest earnings growth in three years, sparking optimism among investors ahead of results...

Finance World
Image Credits: Unsplash
FinanceMay 14, 2025 at 10:30:00 AM

S&P 500 rebounds as inflation cools

[UNITED STATES] The S&P 500 Index has officially erased its year-to-date losses as of May 13, 2025, marking a significant rebound from earlier...

Economy World
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMay 14, 2025 at 10:00:00 AM

Malaysia and Russia strengthen economic ties

[MALAYSIA] Malaysia and Russia are poised to strengthen trade and investment relations, aiming to streamline bilateral transactions and deepen economic collaboration during Prime...

Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege
Load More
Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege