Pope Leo XIV inaugurated, greets crowds in St. Peter's Square

Tens of thousands of Catholics and political leaders gathered at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City on Sunday, May 18, for the inauguration mass of Pope Leo XIV.

Former Chicago resident Robert Francis Prevost made his debut tour of St. Peter's Square earlier in a popemobile, greeting pilgrims and well-wishers before presiding over the ceremony at 10:00 am (0800 GMT).

Notable guests include U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and other world leaders from Europe, Canada, Israel, and Colombia.

Italian authorities have deployed thousands of security officers to ensure the safety of the event, which includes a visit to Saint Peter's tomb and the reception of traditional papal emblems such as the fisherman's ring.

During meetings with journalists and clergy in the past week, Pope Leo XIV emphasized peace, social justice, and traditional Catholic values.