Pope Leo XIV Celebrates First Mass After Historic Election As Pope Francis’ Successor

Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pontiff in history, expressed on Friday that his election was both a challenge and a blessing as he led his first Mass as the head of the Catholic Church. Speaking informally in English to the cardinals who chose him to succeed Pope Francis, Leo emphasized the weight of the responsibility they bestowed upon him. He delivered a concise yet profound sermon on the importance of spreading Christianity joyfully in a world that often ridicules it.

Leo, formerly known as the Chicago-born Augustinian missionary Robert Prevost, was elected as the 267th pope on Thursday in the Sistine Chapel, defying the traditional reluctance towards having a pope from the United States due to the country’s secular influence. The Vatican announced that Leo would be officially inaugurated as pope at a Mass on May 18 and would hold his first general audience on May 21.

During the Mass, two women read from Scripture at the beginning, possibly indicating Leo’s intention to continue Francis’ efforts to enhance the role of women in the church. Leo, speaking in fluent Italian, expressed concern that Christianity is often viewed as absurd or opposed in various parts of the world, attributing this to materialistic temptations. He stressed the importance of faith and mercy in combating societal challenges.

Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis, had identified Prevost as a potential successor and entrusted him with significant responsibilities within the Vatican. Prevost, who had served as a missionary in Peru, played a key role in implementing reforms aimed at increasing the involvement of women and the laity in the church. Leo’s decision to adopt the name Leo in homage to Pope Leo XIII, known for his advocacy of social justice and reform, signaled continuity with Francis’ priorities.

Leo’s election was seen as a potential catalyst for a more unified and inclusive American Catholicism, bridging the gap between conservative and progressive factions within the church. His brother, John Prevost, described him as a compassionate advocate for the marginalized and predicted that he would follow in Pope Francis’ footsteps by maintaining a balanced approach to church leadership.

As Pope Leo XIV embarks on his papacy, he is expected to continue his predecessor’s initiatives while striving to address internal divisions within the church. His upcoming schedule includes public appearances and engagements, with a possible foreign trip on the horizon.