Pope Leo XIV Kicks Off Papal Reign With First Mass Livestream
Pope Leo XIV conducts initial religious service
The unexpected selection of American Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV was confirmed on May 8, 2025, and the world is now eagerly awaiting his first major mass. Having been determined as the successor to the late Pope Francis during a record-breaking conclave late last week, the 69-year-old Prevost returns to the Sistine Chapel for this historic occasion.
But what about catching a glimpse of this momentous event? Fret not, for we've got you covered. Keep your eyes peeled on your screens as the masses can be livestreamed shortly. Details on specific platforms and timing are yet to be announced, so stay tuned for updates from official Vatican channels or Vatican News.
Unmarried and a devoted servant of the Lord, Pope Leo XIV has spent many years as a missionary and bishop in Peru and currently heads the Vatican office for all bishops worldwide. With a captivating mixture of diplomatic acumen and unyielding convictions, he has carved a niche for himself as a mediator and powerful voice among the cardinals.
Having caused a global stir with his modest demeanor during his Habemus Papam announcement, the new pontiff donned a shoulder cape and stole, a nod to centuries-old papal tradition — a stark contrast to his predecessor's cardigan. Overwhelming cheers from the over 100,000 spectators delivered a rousing welcome to the 14th Pope Leo.
The new pope, known for his middle-of-the-road approach, has faced criticism from the political realm on several occasions. Despite this, the first to offer their congratulations was U.S. President Donald Trump, expressing great pride over the honor bestowed upon the United States. In a unique twist, Trump previously cracked a joke about becoming the Pope himself, causing uproar among Catholics worldwide when an AI-generated image depicted him in a cassock and raised finger.
Leo XIV, who carries the weight of two millennia of church history, is poised to either build upon the cautious reforms implemented by the Argentine Francis or take a more conservative, traditional approach. The Catholic Church has faced turbulence in Europe, aggravated by numerous abuse scandals and dwindling membership, while gaining traction on other continents.
The Pope’s first significant public appearance is scheduled for Sunday, leading a prayer on St. Peter’s Square in front of tens of thousands of believers. A grand inaugural mass is expected to take place the following week, with several heads of state in attendance. His first trip could potentially lead him to Turkey later in May.
Stay tuned for more details on Pope Leo XIV's First Mass and other significant events. In the meantime, brace yourself for a groundbreaking era in the Catholic Church.
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(Sources: ntv.de, Christoph Sator, Martina Herzog and Robert Messer, dpa)
- Pope Leo XIV's employment policy, as a leader of the Catholic Church, will be under intensive scrutiny in the coming days, given the challenges faced by the church, including abuse scandals and dwindling membership.
- The community policy of Pope Leo XIV, particularly his approach to the relationship between the church and governments, has been criticized by the political realm on several occasions.
- Despite the criticism, the finance department might find it advantageous to celebrate Pope Leo XIV's leadership and Business savvy, considering his diplomatic acumen and ability to mediate effectively among cardinals.
- During Pope Leo XIV's inaugural mass, Prevost, as an individual, can be expected to round up the support of numerous heads of state, possibly including Pope Francis, as he presides over the grand event.