Pope Leo XIV Celebrates First Mass as Pontiff at the Sistine Chapel

Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected head of the Roman Catholic Church, celebrated his first Mass today inside the Sistine Chapel, marking the official start of his papacy with a deeply symbolic liturgy in the heart of Vatican City.

The historic Mass was attended by members of the College of Cardinals and key Vatican officials and was broadcast live across the globe. The event was closely followed by millions of Catholics, with official coverage and video published by Vatican News.

According to Vatican News, Pope Leo XIV opened his homily by greeting the faithful with the words: “Peace be with you,” emphasizing themes of peace, dialogue, and missionary evangelization.

Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, the 69-year-old Augustinian friar made history this week by becoming the first American to be elected to the papacy. He holds dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru, where he previously served as a bishop.

Quoted by Vatican News, the Pope stated:

“Let us walk together, not apart. Let us listen to one another with hearts open wide. May the Church be a home for all—especially the poor, the excluded, the weary.”

His papal name, Leo XIV, is widely seen as a tribute to Pope Leo XIII, known for his focus on social justice. Church officials say this signals a desire to uphold Catholic tradition while fostering openness and dialogue.

The live ceremony featured traditional Gregorian chants, a renewal of papal vows, and a solemn Eucharist, drawing praise from Church leaders and lay faithful alike.

Leaders from around the world—including U.S. President Donald Trump—have issued formal congratulations. Trump called his election a “great honor” for the country, according to Vatican News. However, there are no confirmed statements from former President Barack Obama or European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in available sources.

As the Church enters this new era under Pope Leo XIV’s leadership, the international Catholic community now watches with anticipation for how he will shape his ministry in an increasingly interconnected and complex world.

For full video coverage and official statements, visit Vatican News.

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