Pope Leo XIV is set to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after his inauguration Mass at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican. During the Mass, Pope Leo XIV expressed his concerns about the war in Ukraine, praying for “negotiations for a just and lasting peace to finally happen” for the “martyred Ukraine”.
In his address to thousands of pilgrims, the Pope warned against marginalizing the poor and autocracy, criticizing “hatred, violence, prejudice, the fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the Earth’s resources and marginalises the poorest”. He vowed to govern without yielding to the temptation of autocracy.
The inauguration ceremony drew dignitaries from around the world, including US Vice President JD Vance and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Zelensky was seen shaking hands with the Pope during the event.
Reactions from Attendees
- Michelle from Germany said, “I came on purpose to see the Pope… It’s very crazy because there’s so many people. I wanted to see the Pope.”
- Joe from Missouri, USA, expressed his pride in seeing the first Pope from the United States, saying, “That was a surprise. He’s gonna be a wonderful Pope. I am not Catholic, but I grew up Catholic, but this is just inspiring no matter what denomination of Christian you are.”
- Pia, a philosophy professor from Chile, felt a sense of “new hope in the church”, citing the Pope’s words “Let the peace be with you” and “don’t be afraid”. She believes the Pope knows what the world and church need – a message of hope and peace.
Inauguration Ceremony
The Pope’s official inauguration followed the Mass, where he received the symbols of office, blessed the people, and issued a call for unity. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines placed the Ring of the Fisherman on the Pope’s finger, symbolizing the papacy.