VATICAN CITY—In front of tens of thousands in St Peter’s Square, newly elected Pope Leo XIV—the first pontiff from the United States—opened his papacy on Sunday with a clear rebuke of “an economic mindset that drains the Earth and sidelines the least among us.
Chicago-born Robert Francis Prevost, 69, rode through the crowd in a popemobile before celebrating his inaugural Mass. Guests ranged from U.S. Vice President JD Vance to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, highlighting the global spotlight on the new pope’s every word.
In his homily, Leo XIV called Catholics to become “agents of unity” instead of retreating into “comfortable circles,” urging respect for each culture’s unique story while working for peace and social justice.
Pilgrims welcomed the message. “He’s already in my heart,” said Inacia Lisboa, a 71-year-old Cape Verdean living in Rome, who asked the pope to “pray for peace—because the world needs it badly.
Security was tight, with snipers, anti-drone teams, and thousands of officers on duty. After visiting Saint Peter’s tomb, Leo XIV received the pallium and Fisherman’s Ring—symbols of papal authority—before admitting he felt “fear and trembling” at the task ahead.
As the first American to hold the office, Leo XIV faces both excitement at home and scrutiny abroad. Supporters hope his background as a missionary in Peru and outspoken stance on social issues will help bridge divides. Critics warn the role now places additional geopolitical weight on Washington.
For now, the new pontiff’s priority is clear: heal a fractured world and shield the vulnerable—before the damage becomes irreversible.
