The inauguration Mass for newly elected Pope Leo will be held next Sunday in St. Peter’s Square, with dignitaries and representatives from around the world expected to attend the historic event.
Among the expected guests is U.S. Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, who is set to attend the ceremony remotely from the United States—Pope Leo’s country of origin.
Pope Leo made his first public address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where he spoke to tens of thousands of faithful gathered below. In his brief but powerful speech, he paid tribute to the late Pope Francis and called for peace across the globe.
Experts say Pope Leo’s choice of name reflects a strong message. The name recalls Pope Leo I, who led the church in the 5th century and famously persuaded Attila the Hun not to invade Rome. His name choice signals a possible focus on bold leadership and tackling social issues in today’s world.
Traditionally, popes have chosen names that reflect their mission. Since the mid-20th century, papal names are often selected to signal the direction or inspiration of a new pontificate.
Pope Leo’s upcoming inauguration is expected to draw widespread attention as the Catholic Church enters a new chapter under his leadership.
