On Sunday, May 18th, an historic moment took place in Rome — the new Pope, Leo XIV, officially took his oath and ascended the throne of Saint Peter, marking the beginning of a new era in the leadership of the Catholic Church
This event was not only a symbolic start of a new pontificate but also received wide international coverage, as Leo XIV became the first American in history to occupy this high ecclesiastical position. The inaugural Mass to mark the beginning of Leo XIV’s papal service was held at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican. This gathering became a genuine celebration for thousands of pilgrims and faithful from around the world, with representatives from various countries and religious communities attending. Predictably, among the guests was Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with his wife, Olena, highlighting the importance and scale of this ceremony for the international political community. During the sermon, which became a key moment of the ceremony, the new pontiff emphasized the value of unity for the church and the world. He specifically noted that his approach to service is based on two key principles: love and unity. “We strive to preserve and strengthen the unity of our Church to become witnesses and bearers of peace and reconciliation in the world,” he said with deep spiritual intensity. This message seemed particularly relevant given the tense situation in Ukraine and the world at large. At the inauguration ceremony, the new Pope received the traditional symbols of authority — a woolen mantle over his shoulders and a ring, which has historically symbolized the solemn authority of the papacy and service to the church. The age attribute was an official portrait — 69-year-old Robert Prevo, who had previously served as a cardinal appointed by Pope Francis in 2023. Before his election, he managed the Holy See’s administration, responsible for the selection of bishops and church administration worldwide. A special moment was his first blessing read at the end of the Sunday service. In his first public appearance as the church’s leader, Leo XIV called for just and firm peace in Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy, cooperation, and spiritual unity to overcome conflicts. “Pray for peace and for those fighting for the freedom and integrity of our land,” he remarked, imbibing his words with deep spiritual and political responsibility. Overall, these events have become significant not only for the faithful but also for the international community, as the anticipated leadership transition in the Catholic Church marks a new chapter in its history. It also reflects Pope Leo XIV’s aspirations to unite the world on global and moral issues, strengthen spiritual values, and actively participate in resolving pressing international problems.