Pope Leo XIV Takes His Place as Bishop of Rome
ROME – In a significant ceremony on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV officially embraced his role as the Bishop of Rome, marking a historic moment for the Catholic Church. The American-born pontiff completed the formalities by taking possession of the iconic St. John Lateran Basilica during an evening Mass attended by priests and parishioners alike.
As the first American pope, Leo’s appointment is seen as a milestone for many within the Church. The mass at St. John Lateran, the cathedral of Rome, symbolizes the heart of the Catholic faith in the city.
After the Mass, Leo made a trip to St. Mary Major, where he honored Pope Francis, his predecessor, and prayed before an important icon of the Virgin Mary. In his homily, Leo expressed a desire to listen and collaborate with the faithful, aiming to grow and decide matters together as a community.
Leo’s election on May 8 came during a Holy Year, a special time every 25 years for pilgrims to gather in Rome. With this in mind, the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, welcomed the new pope to City Hall, highlighting the city’s efforts to accommodate millions of visitors expected during this significant year.
Wearing his ceremonial attire, Pope Leo reflected on the weight of his responsibilities. He expressed a deep commitment to serve the people of Rome and the broader community. “For you and with you, I am Roman!” he affirmed, showcasing his connection to the city and its people.
The former Robert Prevost now steps into a role previously held by Pope Francis, who passed away in April. As Leo begins this new chapter, his leadership will undoubtedly influence the Catholic Church and its followers worldwide.
