Pope Leo XIV's inauguration mass begins in St Peter's Square

Pope Leo XIV will be formally inaugurated as the head of the Roman Catholic Church during a Mass at St Peter’s Square, marking the official beginning of his papacy.

Thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries have gathered for the ceremony, where the 267th Pope will receive the symbols of his office and deliver his inaugural address.

Pope Leo was elected earlier this month after the death of Pope Francis. His selection followed a two-day conclave held in Vatican City, during which the College of Cardinals chose him as the new leader of the Church.

Shortly after his election, Pope Leo celebrated his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel on May 9. In his homily, he urged the Church to urgently address the growing loss of faith and called on cardinals to promote unity within the global Catholic community.

A historic figure, Leo XIV is the first American to be elected Pope. His rise to the papacy has been closely watched by millions around the world, with many anticipating the direction he will take the Church in a time of both internal reflection and global challenges.