In a majestic inaugural Mass at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV officially began his papacy, receiving two of the Church’s most sacred symbols of authority: the Palio, draped over his shoulders to signify his role as shepherd of the global Church, and the Fisherman’s Ring, representing his mission to be a “fisher of men.”
As anticipation swells around his leadership, many faithful hope that Pope Leo XIV will carry forward the legacy of Pope Francis, whose papacy was marked by compassion, inclusivity, and a deep connection with youth. Still, only time will reveal the true course of his pontificate.
What has captured the world’s attention, however, is that Pope Leo XIV is only the second Pope to hail from the American continent. Born in Chicago, USA, he wasted no time in expressing a heartfelt connection to Latin America, delivering part of his first address in Spanish. He specifically thanked the people of Chiclayo, Peru, where he once lived and served.
His bond with Peru is far from symbolic—it’s deeply personal. His first visit to the country was in 1985, a moment he describes as the beginning of a life devoted to service. In recent remarks, Pope Leo XIV even revealed that his path to the Vatican had been “foreseen more than 26 years ago.”
But how could he have known?
That question now lingers in the minds of many as the world watches his next steps with curiosity and hope.v
