Pope Leo XIV, the first American to ascend the papal throne, will conduct his inaugural mass as the new pontiff.
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The Holy City is buzzing with anticipation as Pope Leo XIV prepares to lead the Catholic Church, making history as the first US-born head of the religious institution. On Thursday, Cardinals voted in secrecy and announced the Chicago-born Robert Francis Prevost as their choice in the Sistine Chapel, following a two-day conclave.
The new Pope will offer a private mass on Friday at 11am (0900 GMT) in the very chapel where he was elected, his much-awaited sermon bursting forth into the world via Vatican broadcast. Thousands of well-wishers shouted euphorically as Pope Leo XIV graced the balcony of St Peter's Basilica on Thursday night, even though many were left puzzled by his identity, given the low profile he maintained outside the Church.
Initially recognized only by Vatican watchers and Catholic insiders, Leo's two-decade stint in Peru has revolved around missionary work. He was only conferred the honour of cardinal in 2023. But do not fret, President Donald Trump shared his warm wishes, hailing the event as "a great honor."
From Friday's mass to Sunday's midday Regina Coeli prayer and a meeting with journalists on Monday morning, the world will scrutinize Leo's every action and word. During his first address to assembled crowds in St. Peter's Square on Thursday, he echoed Francis and called for peace, urging the Church to build bridges through dialogue and collaboration.
World leaders have expressed their intention to work alongside the Church in dealing with global issues in these extremely uncertain times. With Pope Leo XIV at the helm, the Church faces a monumental task – asserting a moral voice in a conflict-torn world, unifying an often fractious institution, and tackling thorny issues like the lingering sexual abuse scandal.
Serving as Cardinal Prevost, Leo advocated for the underprivileged and criticized Trump's anti-migrant policies, even as the President applauded his election. It seems Leo, unlike his predecessor, aims for a more moderate approach, adopting a style of diplomacy that maintains a balance between progressives and traditionalists.
As the world turns its attention to this new leader and watches for potential dramatic shifts, Pope Leo XIV reminds us: "Help us, and each other, to build bridges through dialogue, through encounter, to come together as one people, always in peace."
- Social media platforms are likely to be abuzz with discussions and analyses of Pope Leo XIV, the US-born Catholic leader, and his anticipated approach to the Church, as he navigates a new era in Vatican.
- Amidst the excitement and anticipation, career-development opportunities for journalists may arise, as they cover the Pope's every action and word, including Friday's mass, Sunday's Regina Coeli prayer, and his meeting with journalists on Monday.
- Despite President Donald Trump's warm wishes, it remains to be seen how Pope Leo XIV's stance on issues like crime and justice, accidents, and general news will align with the President's policies.
- Meanwhile, in the realm of entertainment, speculation surrounding the Pope's personal life and potential transformations within the Church might drive headlines and attract audience engagement, reflecting a growing interest in the intersection of faith and pop culture.
