Historic First: Pope Leo XIV, North America's Pontiff, Celebrates Debut Mass

Pope Leo XIV made history this Friday as he conducted his first Mass as the pontiff. The momentous event took place in the iconic Sistine Chapel, underscoring his role as the first pope from North America.

As he entered, Pope Leo donned traditional white vestments, pausing to bless the cardinals gathered beneath Michelangelo's renowned piece, "The Last Judgment."

Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, assumed his new role as leader of the Catholic Church after being elected on Thursday, becoming the 267th pope and inheriting the social justice mantle of his predecessor, Pope Francis.

(With inputs from agencies.)