The Vatican has officially announced that the inauguration mass of Pope Leo XIV will take place on Sunday, May 18, at St Peter’s Square.
World leaders are expected to attend the ceremony, which follows the historic election of Robert Francis Prevost as the first American-born pope leading the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
The Vatican outlined several major engagements in the pope’s first days in office. On Monday, May 19, Pope Leo XIV will hold his first press meeting with journalists. He will then meet with diplomats accredited to the Holy See on Friday, May 23.
His first general audience is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, where he will address pilgrims and the global Catholic community. On Saturday, May 24, Pope Leo XIV will meet with Roman Curia officials, the top administrative body in the Vatican.
World Leaders React to Pope Leo XIV’s Election
World leaders welcomed the election of Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, sharing messages of congratulations and hope.
‘A Great Honor’ – Donald Trump
“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country,” said US President Donald Trump.
“I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”
‘Become Leader for Migrants’ – Colombia
Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV will advocate for migrant rights.
“I hope he becomes a great leader for migrant peoples around the world. I hope he encourages our Latin American migrant brothers and sisters, humiliated today in the United States. It’s time for them to organize,” he stated.
‘Stronger Vatican Ties’ – Israel
Israeli President Isaac Herzog pledged closer relations with the Vatican under Pope Leo XIV’s leadership.
“We look forward to enhancing the relationship between Israel and the Holy See and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians in the Holy Land and around the world. May your papacy be one of building bridges and understanding between all faiths and peoples,” Herzog said.
‘Christian Values Unite Us’ – Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized shared religious values between Russia and the Vatican.
“I am confident that the constructive dialogue and cooperation established between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop on the basis of the Christian values that unite us,” Putin declared.
‘Hope and Guidance’ – Germany
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Pope Leo XIV’s leadership would inspire millions.
“Through your role, you provide hope and guidance to millions of believers around the world in these challenging times,” Merz said.
‘Strengthen Human Rights’ – Spain
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called on Pope Leo XIV to champion human rights.
“May his pontificate contribute to strengthening dialogue and the defense of human rights in a world that needs hope and unity,” Sanchez stated.
‘Reinforce Unique Bonds’ – Poland
Polish President Andrzej Duda, a conservative Catholic, expressed readiness for closer cooperation.
“Please accept the assurance of the readiness of the Republic of Poland to further strengthen these unique bonds—in the name of shared values, responsibility for the common good, and the strengthening of peace in the world,” Duda said.
‘Commitment to Peace’ – European Union
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Pope Leo XIV’s dedication to peace.
“We wish that his pontificate be guided by wisdom and strength, as he leads the Catholic community and inspires the world through his commitment to peace and dialogue,” she said.
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