The election of a new pope always stirs emotion and hope among the faithful around the world. How did the first day of Leo XIV’s pontificate unfold? We look at the signals the new leader of the Church has sent and what can be expected from him.
Habemus Papam! The historic election of Leo XIV
On 8 May 2025, the world heard the famous “Habemus Papam!” This time it was announced by Cardinal Dominique Mamberti. The new pope is Robert Francis Prevost, the first American on the Chair of Peter, who took the name Leo XIV. The choice surprised many, as Prevost devoted most of his life to missionary work in Peru and was only made a cardinal in 2023.
The first hours of the pontificate: symbolism and gestures
A solemn presentation
Shortly after the election, Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the crowds gathered in the square. His first words, “Peace be with you!”, were spoken in several languages, underlining the universal dimension of his message and referring to the current challenges facing the world. Notably, the pope did not refer to his American origins, and in his address he emphasised the importance of peace, drawing on the legacy of his predecessor, Francis.
Symbolic choices
Leo XIV opted for the classic red papal mozzetta, which is read as a sign of respect for tradition, but also as a desire to assert his own identity as the new leader of the Church. The choice of the name “Leo” is a nod to popes who in history were known for their courage and reforms.
What happens on the first day of a new pope?
Key events
- Acceptance of the election and announcement of the new name
- First address to the faithful and the Urbi et Orbi blessing
- Mass with the cardinals in the Sistine Chapel, closed to the public
- Meetings with closest collaborators and preparations for the official inauguration
The most important moments of the first day
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Announcement of the election | “Habemus Papam!” and presentation on the balcony |
| The pope’s first words | A message of peace, reference to the predecessor |
| Mass in the Sistine Chapel | Private liturgy with the cardinals, without the faithful |
| Preparations for the inauguration | Planning the solemn Mass and meetings with delegations |
A new pope, new hopes
In the first hours of his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV made clear that he wishes to be a “faithful steward” of the Church and to continue the mission of proclaiming the Gospel in difficult times. He pointed to the challenges of our age: the crisis of the family, the loss of meaning in life, and the marginalisation of faith. At the same time, his gestures and words suggest that he intends to combine tradition with openness to new challenges.
The first day of the new pope is a time of intense symbolism and gestures that set the direction of the coming pontificate. From the very first moments, Leo XIV signals that the Church is entering a time of peace, dialogue and a return to its roots, while also opening itself to the world. This is the beginning of a new chapter for 1.4 billion Catholics around the world.
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