In Video: Special Report: Pope Leo XIV presides over his inaugural Mass
Good Morning
I’m Anne Thompson and welcome to our coverage of Pope Leo I 14’s first public mass. This inaugural mass is being held in St. Peter’s Square where thousands are gathered to celebrate the official start of Leo’s historic papacy. The first American pope was elected 10 days ago to great excitement.
The Significance of Today’s Mass
George Wigel, our senior Vatican analyst, explains that today’s mass is the inauguration publicly of Pope Leo’s ministry as the bishop of Rome and the universal pastor of the church. We’ll see the universality of the church displayed in a very striking way, with the leader of the Eastern Catholic churches, the Byzantine rite Catholic churches, going down to the tomb of St. Peter and coming back up together to begin the mass.
The Presentation of the Pope
Maryanne Ahern, our senior Vatican analyst, notes that the Pope has been known for his international outlook, raised in the Midwest but spending over 20 years in Rome and Peru. Deacon Nicholas Mannon, from Southbend, Indiana, chanted the gospel in Latin, and the Pope has received congratulations from world leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US Vice President JD Vance.
The Homily
During the homily, Pope Leo emphasized the love of God, the importance of unity, and the missionary spirit of the church. He spoke of the need for a united church to build a new world where peace reigns, and the importance of serving the poor. He also referenced his predecessor, Pope Francis, and his own experience as a priest and missionary in Peru.
The Eucharistic Prayers
As we watch the distribution of communion, striking moments are seen, such as the Pope stopping to talk to the married couples and the different people who brought the gifts to the altar. Bishop Stephen Oppenheimer was spotted in the crowd, and Raph Sanchez is with those receiving communion, who are behaving in a communal manner, sharing water and sharing moments of faith.
A New Era for the Catholic Church
As the mass concludes, George Wigel reflects on the hope for the Catholic future, and Maryanne Ahern notes the challenges ahead for the new Pope. The palium and the fisherman’s ring symbolize the Pope’s ministry, which is a massive responsibility. Cardinal Taglay has presented these symbols, and George wonders if he brought candy, as was reportedly done in the conclave.
Conclusion
That concludes this NBC News special report. Thank you for watching and for getting up early with us today. Stay updated about breaking news and top stories on the NBC News app or follow us on social media.
