The celebration marking the official beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate on May 18 is a solemn liturgy.
The symbolic rite highlights the bond with the Apostle Peter and his martyrdom, which nurtured the nascent Church of Rome, and the significance of the “Petrine” episcopal insignia conferred upon the Pope: the Pallium and the Ring of the Fisherman.
Heads of governments’ delegations across the globe have started departing for Vatican City in Rome as of Saturday.
Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu will join other world leaders and prominent personalities to witness the inauguration of the 267th Pope and leader of the Catholic Church.
Elected on May 8, Cardinal Robert Prevost is the first American pope. The 69-year-old Chicago native is seen as a diplomat in the church.
Pope Leo XIV’s leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace, harmony, solidarity and service in the world.
With the Eucharistic celebration taking place on 18 May at 10:00 AM (CET) in St. Peter’s Basilica and Square, the Bishop of Rome, Leo XIV, solemnly begins his Petrine Ministry as the successor of the Apostle Peter and, therefore, as Pastor of the Catholic Church.
As explained by the Office for the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff, the rite features several moments of profound symbolic meaning, including those regarding the ancient episcopal insignia associated with Peter: the Pallium and the Ring of the Fisherman.
Before the celebration ends, the Pope offers a brief address. After the singing of the Regina Caeli, he imparts the solemn blessing imbued with the biblical imagery of the vine and vineyard applied to the Church. He prays that the Lord may “look upon” and “protect” the vine He has planted, and asks that His face of salvation may “shine” upon all. (With additional reports from Vatican News)
