Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration: What the Pope’s Ring Symbolizes, His Brother’s Absence & More
All popes wear rings, and the newly-elected pontiff was reportedly emotional when he received his during the inauguration. Yet even as he marked this solemn tradition, the moment was tinged with the absence of close and powerful figures — including his brother and a prominent world leader.
Pope Leo XIV’s Inaugural Mass was held on May 18, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square. The event drew world leaders, royalty, and tens of thousands of faithful people — but there were parts of the ceremony that many may not know about.
The ceremony was more than just formal prayers and speeches — it began with powerful moments that touched many in the crowd.
Pope Leo, the 267th pontiff, rode into St. Peter’s Square in the popemobile for the first time. As he made his way through the square, large groups of people cheered and waved. Around 100,000 attendees were present when the Mass began, according to officials.
During the ride, he paused briefly to kiss a child, a gesture that drew even more joy from the crowd. Shouts of “Viva il Papa” echoed throughout the square, with clapping and happy cries filling the air as the pope arrived.
Amid the warm welcome and emotional scenes in the square, attention turned to the words Pope Leo XIV shared during his homily — a moment that gave many a clearer sense of his path ahead.
In his speech, the Holy Father rejected the use of religion for political gain or personal influence. He urged the faithful to stay united, which some might view as touching on the growing divide between progressive and traditional groups seen in recent years.
The Supreme Pontiff also criticized systems that damage the planet while pushing the poorest to the edges of society. He made it clear that he did not accept his role because of any personal achievements, saying:
“I was chosen, without any merit of my own, and now, with fear and trembling, I come to you as a brother.”
In addition, Pope Leo spoke about the expectations placed on him by those who chose him for the role. According to the Holy Father, the cardinals who elected him were looking for a shepherd who could protect the deep roots of the Christian faith while also facing today’s challenges and preparing for what lies ahead.
After sharing the hopes of those who placed their trust in him, the Bishop of Rome turned his focus to the world’s most urgent cries for peace. He asked for an end to the war in Ukraine and prayed for the people in Gaza, especially the elderly, families, and children left struggling with hunger and loss.