Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, celebrated his first mass as pope on Friday in the Sistine Chapel, less than a day after being elected the 267th pontiff and successor to Pope Francis. In a solemn service attended by the same cardinals who selected him, Leo warned of a growing global crisis stemming from a loss of faith and said he hopes the Catholic Church can serve as a guiding light in the world’s “dark nights.”
The 69-year-old Chicago-born leader, who spent two decades as a missionary in Peru, delivered his homily in both English and Italian. Clad in simple white and gold vestments, Leo described his vision of a Church rooted in community and Gospel teachings, pledging to serve as a “faithful administrator” for 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
He acknowledged the challenges ahead, including societal skepticism of religion, increasing divisions within the Church, and a world plagued by the erosion of mercy and human dignity. The Vatican confirmed Leo’s formal inauguration mass will be held on May 18 in St. Peter’s Square, with his first general audience scheduled three days later. For now, all top Vatican officials have been confirmed in their posts on a temporary basis.
Pope Leo XIV was elevated after a two-day conclave marked by secrecy. Though specific details remain undisclosed, his election marks a historic first for the U.S., and his name choice references Pope Leo XIII, known for championing social justice. Celebrations erupted in Chiclayo, Peru, where Leo served as bishop, with locals proudly embracing him as one of their own.
Leo inherits a deeply divided Church, facing calls for reform on LGBTQ+ inclusion, women’s roles, and strained Vatican finances. His past social media activity, including critiques of U.S. immigration policies, has already drawn attention and may signal friction with President Donald Trump, who quickly issued congratulations.
Source: Swifteradio.com
