Pope Leo XIV to Hold Grand Inaugural Mass on May 18, First Audience May 21
The Vatican Announces the Inauguration Date for Pope Leo XIV, Marking the Start of a New Era
- Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration Mass will be held on May 18 in St. Peter's Square
- The new pope will meet the faithful for his first general audience on May 21
- Pope Leo XIV was elected on Thursday
Pope Leo XIV is set to officially commence his papacy with a formal inauguration Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, May 18, 2025, as announced by the Vatican.
The newly elected pontiff, who assumed the papal name Leo XIV, was elected on Thursday following the passing of Pope Francis.
He is also scheduled to hold his first general audience on May 21, marking the beginning of his public engagements as pope.
In his inaugural Mass in the Sistine Chapel, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Church’s role as a beacon of light in a world facing moral uncertainty and societal challenges.
He expressed a commitment to continue the mission of spreading peace and compassion, building upon the legacy of his predecessor.
The Vatican’s announcement underscores the significance of these upcoming events in the early days of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy.
The inauguration Mass and general audience are pivotal moments as he begins his leadership of the global Catholic community.
