Daijiworld Media Network - Vatican

Vatican, May 18: St Peter’s Square was alive with emotion and spectacle on Sunday as Pope Leo XIV made his first public appearance in the iconic popemobile, waving to tens of thousands gathered for the formal launch of his papacy — a moment that fused centuries-old tradition with the energy of modern global attention.

The newly elected pontiff, the first American-born pope in the Church’s history, smiled and blessed the crowd from the open-air vehicle, a gesture that has become symbolic of the pope’s closeness to the faithful. As the popemobile moved slowly through the cheering crowd, the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out, underscoring the historical weight of the moment.

Cries of “Viva il Papa!” echoed through the square, with a sea of flags from the United States, Peru, and the Vatican fluttering above pilgrims who braved the spring sunshine. Many held up banners and umbrellas, adding splashes of color to the already vibrant scene.

Tight security ensured an orderly celebration as emergency personnel guided pilgrims into designated areas, while clergy prepared for the inauguration Mass inside the basilica.

At the heart of the day’s ceremony was Leo XIV, a 69-year-old Augustinian missionary elected pope on May 8 after a swift 24-hour conclave. Born in Chicago but holding dual citizenship with Peru, Leo’s elevation has stirred global interest — not just for his origins but for the vision he brings to the papacy.

Before presiding over Mass, the new pope paused for a private moment of prayer at the tomb of St. Peter, marking the continuity of apostolic tradition. He then processed out into the square to begin the formal liturgical rites that inaugurate his leadership of the Roman Catholic Church.

Dignitaries from across the world filled the front rows, following strict diplomatic protocol. The U.S. and Peru, reflecting Leo’s heritage, were given priority seating. Vice President JD Vance led the American delegation, accompanied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had already arrived in Rome to engage in diplomatic talks on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Peruvian President Dina Boluarte was among more than a dozen heads of state in attendance, joined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian Culture Minister Olga Liubimova, signaling the Vatican's continuing role as a neutral ground for diplomacy.

In a show of Christian unity, delegations from over 30 Christian denominations participated, their leaders — patriarchs, ministers, and metropolitans — bearing witness to the historic occasion.

Pope Leo’s inaugural moments as spiritual leader were as much about symbolism as they were about service. As the Mass commenced, it marked not only a new chapter for the Vatican but a moment of renewed hope for Catholics worldwide.