Pope Leo XIV: An American Beacon of Unity and Peace

Pope Leo XIV, history's first American pope, delivered a powerful message of unity during his inaugural Mass at St. Peter's Square, vowing to transform the Catholic Church into a beacon of peace worldwide. His presence was witnessed by tens of thousands, including world leaders and diverse religious delegations.

As he began his pontificate, the 69-year-old Leo took the traditional popemobile tour, symbolizing the global reach of the papacy. Despite tight security measures, the event blended ancient rituals with a modern celebratory atmosphere, showcasing the pope's commitment to tradition and peaceful diplomacy.

In his homily, Leo emphasized love and unity as foundational to his papacy, appealing to both conservative and progressive Catholics. The inaugural ceremony marked the beginning of a papacy poised to address global issues with a focus on reconciliation, peace, and doctrinal integrity.

(With inputs from agencies.)