Pope Leo XIV installation mass live updates: The first American pope will start the day by taking his first tour through the piazza in the popemobile. The open-topped vehicle has become synonymous with the papacy’s global reach and mediatic draw, used at home and abroad to bring popes close to their flock.
Welcome to our live blog on the installation of Pope Leo XIV, the 267th head of the Roman Catholic Church and the first American pope. On Sunday, May 18, the grand papal inauguration at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City marks the official start of his papacy.Tens of thousands are expected to attend, including world leaders, royalty, dignitaries, religious leaders from other faiths, and pilgrims from across the world. Among the prominent guests are US Vice President JD Vance, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and others.
The ceremony will feature key papal symbols: the fisherman’s ring, which signifies the pope’s authority as the successor of Saint Peter; the pallium, a white woollen band symbolising pastoral responsibility; and the papal stole, draped over his shoulders to represent spiritual leadership and service.
Born in Chicago in 1955, Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected Pope on May 8, 2025, after a swift conclave. As Pope Leo XIV, he is set to deliver his first general audience on May 21 and will meet with cardinals, diplomats, Vatican staff, the press, and the faithful in the coming days.
Stay with us for real-time updates, key moments, ceremonial highlights, and global reactions as the Catholic Church begins a historic new chapter.
