Today, 18 May, Pope Leo XIV will officially begin his ministry as Pope with a special liturgical celebration at 10:00 AM (CET) in St. Peter’s Basilica and Square. This important Mass will mark the start of his role as the Bishop of Rome and the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church. The celebration will focus on the deep connection between the new Pope and Saint Peter, the first Apostle and leader of the early Church. Two important symbols will be given to the Pope: the Pallium, a wool vestment symbolising the Good Shepherd, and the Ring of the Fisherman, representing Peter’s role in strengthening the faith.
The celebration will begin inside the Basilica, where Pope Leo XIV will pray at the tomb of Saint Peter, joined by leaders of the Eastern Churches. Deacons will then carry the Pallium, the Ring, and the Book of the Gospels to the altar outside in St. Peter’s Square. The Pope will follow in a procession while a hymn is sung, asking for the prayers of holy saints. A large tapestry showing Peter’s miraculous catch of fish will hang from the Basilica, highlighting the Gospel theme of the celebration. Near the altar, an image of Our Lady of Good Counsel from Genazzano will be placed.
The rite will continue with a blessing using holy water, followed by the Gloria and a prayer recalling God’s plan to build the Church on Peter. The Bible readings will be given in Spanish, Italian, Latin, and Greek. They will focus on Peter’s mission and his relationship with Jesus. After the Gospel, three Cardinals will come forward—one placing the Pallium on the Pope, and the other two offering prayers for the new Pope and giving him the Ring of the Fisherman.
A prayer will then be said, asking the Holy Spirit to guide Pope Leo XIV with strength and gentleness. He will bless the people with the Book of the Gospels, and the crowd will proclaim “Ad multos annos!”—a wish for many years of service. Then, twelve people from around the world, representing the Church, will come forward to show their loyalty to the new Pope.
The Mass will continue with the Pope’s homily, the singing of the Creed, and prayers in several languages. These prayers will ask for peace, unity, and help for those in need. During the Offertory, bread and wine will be brought forward, and the Pope will pray for the Church’s mission to reach the world. He will then lead the Eucharistic Prayer, followed by Communion. The Mass will end with a final blessing and a short message from the Pope. After the Regina Caeli is sung, the Pope will bless everyone, asking God to care for His Church, His vineyard, and to shine His face upon all people.
Source: Vatican News
