Tens of thousands are expected to gather at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican today, Sunday, May 18, 2025, for the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV. The ceremony marks the official start of the new pontiff’s papacy.

According to Vatican News, the ceremony will begin with a Mass of Inauguration attended by thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries from around the world. The liturgy will include several ancient rites rich in symbolism, reflecting the Pope’s new role as Bishop of Rome and leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

The Pope will arrive at the Basilica in the popemobile, waving to the crowds gathered at the square. While the inauguration follows a long-standing tradition, each pope often introduces personal touches.

For example, Pope Francis broke from precedent by abandoning the bulletproof popemobile used by his predecessor, Benedict XVI, favoring instead an open-top Jeep. He also chose a plain white papal cassock and black shoes, simple alternatives to the ornate red loafers that once drew global attention.

During his inaugural procession, Francis famously paused to kiss a baby’s head and greet a disabled man, gestures that defined his compassionate papal style.

Similarly, Pope Leo XIV is expected to bring his own tone to the papacy, with early signs pointing to humility and pastoral leadership.

During the Mass, Pope Leo XIV will receive three key items of deep spiritual and historical significance.

The first is the Fisherman’s Ring. As reported by the Catholic News Agency (CNA), the Pope will be presented with the ring a gold band engraved with an image of St. Peter casting his net. This symbol underscores the Pope’s role as Peter’s successor and chief shepherd of the Church. Traditionally, the ring is destroyed upon a pope’s death to prevent misuse. The Vatican has already released images of Pope Leo XIV’s ring.

Next is the pallium; a white woolen stole adorned with black crosses, worn over the shoulders. It represents the yoke of Christ and the Pope’s burden as the chief pastor of the global Church. This tradition dates back to the early centuries of Christianity.

Finally, during the liturgy, a Book of the Gospels will be held open over the Pope’s head, a powerful gesture symbolizing that the Pope is under the authority of God’s Word, not above it. As Vatican News explains, it underscores the Pope’s duty to preach the Gospel with humility and faithfulness.

Since the pontificate of John Paul I in 1978, popes have chosen not to wear the papal tiara, a symbol of monarchial authority in favor of more humble imagery. Pope Leo XIV follows in this tradition, reinforcing a vision of servant leadership.

He will also deliver his first homily, laying out themes that may shape his papacy.

Pope Francis, in his inaugural homily, spoke of tenderness, humility, and the need to protect the vulnerable. He pledged to “embrace with tender affection the whole of humanity, especially the poorest, the weakest, the least important.”

So far, Pope Leo XIV’s rhetoric has centered on global conflict and peacebuilding. His papacy begins at a time when war continues to rage in parts of the Middle East, Ukraine, and beyond, raising hopes that the Church will play a renewed role in calling for peace and reconciliation.

The ceremony will conclude with a pledge of obedience from select cardinals, symbolizing the global College of Cardinals’ loyalty to the new pontiff.