In a deeply symbolic and historic moment, Pope Leo XIV formally completed the traditional rites to assume his role as Bishop of Rome, marking the final step in his elevation to the papacy. Speaking to a crowd of thousands gathered outside the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the pontiff powerfully declared, “I am Roman!”—a phrase resonating with centuries of tradition and ecclesiastical authority.
The ceremony, held at the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome, cements the new pope’s position not only as the spiritual leader of the global Catholic Church, but also as the pastor of the city of Rome itself—a title historically vital to the identity of the papacy.
Pope Leo XIV, elected in a conclave just weeks ago, has already begun shaping his papal mission with messages emphasizing unity, humility, and a return to core Gospel values. His declaration during the rite was a powerful reaffirmation of his connection to the heart of Catholicism.
The “possessio,” as the formal ceremony is known, is a centuries-old tradition whereby the pope takes symbolic and pastoral possession of the Cathedral of the Most Holy Savior and of Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist in the Lateran, the actual cathedral of Rome and the official ecclesiastical seat of the pope—not St. Peter’s Basilica, as many might assume.
During the homily, Pope Leo XIV called on the faithful to pray for peace, justice, and compassion in a world facing rising instability and division. “As Bishop of Rome, I pledge myself to every corner of this eternal city and to every soul across the world who calls the Church their home,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, cardinals, clergy, and faithful from around the globe, reflecting the international reach of the Church and the importance of Rome in global Catholic identity.
Vatican observers note that Pope Leo XIV’s emphasis on his Roman identity may signal a renewed focus on pastoral outreach within Italy and a more grounded, localized approach to papal leadership, even as global challenges loom large.
The pope’s proclamation, “I am Roman,” is not merely ceremonial—it echoes the spiritual lineage of apostles Peter and Paul, the martyrs of Rome, and the unbroken succession of popes who have shepherded the Catholic Church for over two millennia.
Source : Swifteradio.com
