Pope Leo XIV has made headlines today by meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shortly after his inauguration Mass. His inaugural address focused heavily on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine while calling for unity and justice.
Pope Leo XIV Welcomes Zelensky in Historic Inauguration Meeting
Pope Leo XIV Welcomes Zelensky in Historic Inauguration Meeting
Newly inaugurated Pope speaks on peace in Ukraine while interacting with global dignitaries during his first Mass.
The Vatican announced that Pope Leo XIV would be meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky following the pontiff's inauguration Mass, where he delivered a heartfelt prayer for peace in Ukraine. The Pope emphasized the need for negotiations to achieve a "just and lasting peace" in a nation embroiled in war, referring to it as "the martyred Ukraine." His inaugural Mass was attended by thousands in St Peter’s Square and included notable figures such as US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
During the ceremony, the Pope highlighted the importance of dissent against "hatred, violence, and prejudice," urging people to unite and support the marginalized. He promised to govern with humility and without yielding to the temptations of autocracy. As he received symbols of his office, a palpable sense of excitement flowed through the crowd, with pilgrims and visitors alike gathering to catch a glimpse of the new Pope.
Many attendees expressed their admiration for the historic occasion. Michelle from Germany recounted her efforts to attend, saying, “I wanted to see the Pope.” Visitors such as Joe from Missouri also expressed their pride in witnessing the inauguration of the first Pope from the United States, calling it “a very special moment.”
Philosophy professor Pia, from Chile, echoed sentiments of hope, remarking, “He knows what the world and the church needs… I think many people are waiting for that.” As part of the inauguration ceremony, the Pope was adorned with the traditional pallium and the Ring of the Fisherman, symbolizing his commitment to the papacy and pastoral leadership.
With an agenda focusing on peace, unity, and hope, Pope Leo XIV's inauguration marks a significant moment for both the Catholic Church and the broader global community.
During the ceremony, the Pope highlighted the importance of dissent against "hatred, violence, and prejudice," urging people to unite and support the marginalized. He promised to govern with humility and without yielding to the temptations of autocracy. As he received symbols of his office, a palpable sense of excitement flowed through the crowd, with pilgrims and visitors alike gathering to catch a glimpse of the new Pope.
Many attendees expressed their admiration for the historic occasion. Michelle from Germany recounted her efforts to attend, saying, “I wanted to see the Pope.” Visitors such as Joe from Missouri also expressed their pride in witnessing the inauguration of the first Pope from the United States, calling it “a very special moment.”
Philosophy professor Pia, from Chile, echoed sentiments of hope, remarking, “He knows what the world and the church needs… I think many people are waiting for that.” As part of the inauguration ceremony, the Pope was adorned with the traditional pallium and the Ring of the Fisherman, symbolizing his commitment to the papacy and pastoral leadership.
With an agenda focusing on peace, unity, and hope, Pope Leo XIV's inauguration marks a significant moment for both the Catholic Church and the broader global community.
