Pope Leo XIV inaugurated with calls for unity, justice, peace in Ukraine

New Delhi, May 18: Leo XIV, the first American pope in history, formally began his papacy with a Mass in St. Peter’s Square marked by pageantry, symbolism, and appeals for global and ecclesiastical solidarity. Tens of thousands gathered to witness the ceremony, which drew an international delegation of political leaders, diplomats, and church officials.

The 267th pontiff made his entrance in the popemobile, greeted by a sea of waving flags and chants from the crowd. The vehicle made several laps through the square, during which the new pope paused to interact with the faithful, including a moment where he was seen kissing a child.

Approximately 100,000 people were present for the liturgy, which lasted two hours and centered on themes of humility, service, and social justice. In his homily, the new pope emphasized the need for cohesion within the Catholic Church and rejected internal divisions and politicization of faith. He delivered strong criticism of economic systems that degrade the planet and marginalize the poor, reinforcing a continuity with the priorities of his predecessor.

High-profile figures in attendance included U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who were observed in conversation before the service began. The pope, who spent much of his clerical life in Peru, was also joined by Peruvian President Dina Boluarte. Delegations from over 150 countries were represented at the Vatican, underscoring the global attention on this new phase of Catholic leadership.

Following the inauguration Mass, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to meet President Zelensky later in the day. The meeting is expected to focus on the ongoing war in Ukraine, a crisis the new pope addressed directly in his concluding prayer.

Referring to the suffering endured by Ukrainians, he spoke of the "martyred Ukraine" and urged that "negotiations for a just and lasting peace finally happen."

In his closing remarks, Pope Leo also expressed concern for civilians in Gaza, referencing the suffering of children, families, and the elderly who, he said, are facing hunger and devastation. The address further underscored the new pope’s orientation toward global justice, peacebuilding, and pastoral humility.