Pope Leo XIV Inaugurated with rites rooted in centuries-old tradition.
In a historic and deeply symbolic celebration, Bishop of Rome Leo XIV officially commenced his Petrine Ministry today during a solemn Eucharistic liturgy held in St. Peter’s Basilica and Square. The event marked his succession as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church succeeding his predecessors with rites rooted in centuries-old tradition.
The celebration began inside the basilica where the new Pope paused in prayer at the tomb of Saint Peter accompanied by Eastern Church Patriarchs. This moment underscored the unbreakable link between the papacy and the Apostle Peter, the church’s foundational figure. Following prayer and incense, the procession moved toward the square carrying the Bishop’s insignia: the Pallium, the Ring of the Fisherman and the Book of the Gospels.
As the Laudes Regiae hymns filled the air, a tapestry depicting the miraculous catch of fish originally crafted for the Sistine Chapel hung prominently at the basilica’s entrance symbolizing Peter’s role as a “fisher of men.” The scene was completed by the image of Our Lady of Good Counsel from the Marian Shrine of Genazzano.
The liturgical rites emphasized the symbolic importance of Peter’s role with the Pope receiving the Palliuma woolen vestment symbolizing Christ’s care for His flock and the Ring of the Fisherman representing the authority and seal of faith entrusted to Peter. These insignia are central to the papal office recalling the biblical and historical foundations of Peter’s leadership.
The Liturgy of the Word featured readings in multiple languages including Spanish, Italian, Latin and Greek, highlighting the universal nature of the Church. The passages from Acts, Psalms, and Peter’s First Letter reinforced the symbolism of Christ as the cornerstone and Peter’s unique role among the apostles. The Gospel from John recounted Jesus’ threefold question to Peter: “Do you love Me? Feed My sheep,” underscoring the pastoral mission conferred upon the new Pontiff.
Following the Gospel, three cardinals representing different continents approached the Pope to place the Pallium on his shoulders, offer prayers and present the Ring of the Fisherman. A prayer to the Holy Spirit was then led invoking strength and unity for the new Pope in his ministry.
The moment of public allegiance, known as the Rite of Obedience saw twelve representatives from around the world pledge their loyalty to Leo XIV. The celebration continued with a homily, the recitation of the Creed and intercessory prayers in multiple languages including Portuguese, French, Arabic, Polish, and Chinese reflecting the global reach of the Church.
The Eucharistic liturgy culminated in the Offertory chant “You are the Shepherd of the sheep,” and the Pope’s prayer over the bread and wine seeking the fruits of redemption for all nations. Pope Leo XIV then led the congregation through the First Eucharistic Prayer and the Communion Rite praying for unity, charity and protection for the Church.
Before concluding, the Holy Father addressed the assembly briefly offering a blessing inspired by biblical imagery of the vine and vineyard invoking divine protection and salvation for the Church. The celebration ended with the singing of the Regina Caeli and the Pope’s blessing marking the beginning of a new chapter in his leadership.
This solemn and richly symbolic celebration not only inaugurated Pope Leo XIV’s papacy but also reaffirmed the enduring traditions and spiritual foundations of the Catholic Church.
