The Vatican was the center of the Catholic world as Pope Leo XIV officially began his pontificate with a grand inaugural mass on May 18, 2025. Over 200,000 faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, Rome, to witness the historic event, which was also broadcast globally. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from over 150 countries, including U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Italian President Sergio Mattarella, highlighting the universal appeal and significance of the papal inauguration.

During the mass, Pope Leo XIV received the pallium and the Fisherman's Ring, symbols of his new role as the successor of St. Peter. The pallium, a woolen scarf, represents the shepherd's care for his flock, while the Fisherman's Ring symbolizes the pope's authority. These sacred items were presented by Cardinal Mario Zenari, the apostolic nuncio to Syria, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines, respectively, following a blessing prayer by Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo of Kinshasa.

The ceremony was not only a spiritual milestone but also a spectacle of tradition and symbolism, drawing comments from cultural figures like Olivier Py, who praised the event's ability to inspire transcendence. The presence of such symbols, from the pallium to the Fisherman's Ring, served as a reminder of the enduring traditions of the Catholic Church and the solemn responsibilities of its leader.

As Pope Leo XIV embarks on his pontificate, the Catholic community worldwide looks forward to his leadership with hope and anticipation. The inaugural mass, rich in symbolism and attended by a global audience, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Church under his guidance. The event not only celebrated the continuity of the Church's traditions but also its capacity to unite people across different cultures and nations in a shared faith.