Vatican City | June 2025 — In a historic and deeply symbolic ceremony, Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff in the history of the Roman Catholic Church, celebrated his first Mass as pope inside the Sistine Chapel on Friday, just a day after his surprise election by the College of Cardinals.
Chicago-born Robert Prevost, an Augustinian missionary, was elected the 267th pope, succeeding Pope Francis. His election marks a new era for the Church, not just due to his nationality, but also for the pastoral and inclusive tone he set from the very first homily. He chose the name Leo XIV, invoking a tradition of leadership and strength, while also reflecting humility and continuity with Pope Francis’ mission of justice and mercy.
A Message of Mission and Humility
Speaking off-the-cuff in English, Pope Leo XIV told the assembled cardinals that their choice was “both a cross to bear and a blessing.” He emphasized that his role as pope was a shared mission, calling upon the global Church to joyfully spread the Gospel even in a world that often mocks or misunderstands the Christian message.
“You have called me to carry that cross and to be blessed with that mission,” he said. “I know I can rely on each and every one of you to walk with me—as we continue as a Church, as a community, as friends of Jesus—to announce the Good News.”
His words struck a chord with many, especially as he acknowledged the rising tide of secularism and practical atheism, even within baptized Christian communities.
Continuing Pope Francis’ Legacy
During his homily, delivered in near-fluent Italian, Pope Leo XIV built on themes championed by his predecessor, warning against reducing Jesus to a “superman or charismatic leader.” He lamented a world increasingly obsessed with money, power, and individualism, where faith is trivialized or disregarded.
“A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life, the neglect of mercy, and violations of human dignity,” he said.
In a powerful gesture, two women were invited to read the Scripture readings, signaling the new pontiff’s likely intention to uphold Pope Francis’ reforms on enhancing women’s roles in the Church. As a cardinal, Leo XIV had already made waves by appointing women to key Vatican decision-making bodies.
A New Tone for the Papacy
Clad in traditional papal white but donning simple black shoes—forgoing the symbolic red loafers favored by some of his predecessors—Pope Leo XIV offered a visual continuation of Pope Francis’ commitment to simplicity and humility.
The Mass concluded with warm applause from the cardinals present—an unusual but telling moment of unity and hope.
Following tradition, the Vatican confirmed that all Vatican officials—whose roles are technically vacated upon the death of a pope—had been asked by Leo XIV to remain in office temporarily, as he takes time for “reflection, prayer, and dialogue” before making formal appointments.
Installation and First Public Address
The Vatican has announced that Pope Leo XIV will be formally installed at a special Mass on May 18, with his first general audience scheduled for May 21. The events are expected to draw global attention, not only for their ceremonial importance but also for what they may reveal about the tone and direction of his pontificate.
As the Church turns a new page, early signs suggest Pope Leo XIV intends to blend continuity with compassion, and reform with reverence—all while navigating the expectations and challenges that come with being the first American to occupy the Chair of St. Peter.
