Pope Leo XIV is set to deliver his first Sunday address and blessing today in St Peter’s Square, marking an important moment in his early days as leader of the Catholic Church.
Thousands are expected to gather as he recites the Regina Caeli prayer, a traditional devotion honoring the Virgin Mary during Eastertide.
Before this highly anticipated appearance, Pope Leo visited a shrine outside Rome and offered prayers at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, inside the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica.
The gesture was seen as a deeply personal tribute to the man whose legacy he now continues.
The 69-year-old, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago and also a Peruvian citizen, was elected on Thursday following a two-day conclave. He becomes the 267th pope and the first American to hold the position.
His formal inauguration will take place on May 18, during a Mass attended by world leaders and dignitaries.
During his first meetings with cardinals, Pope Leo described himself as an “unworthy choice” and pledged to carry forward Pope Francis’ vision of a Church that defends the poor, migrants, and the environment.
He also spoke about the Church’s growing responsibility in a world shaped by technological change.
“The Church must stand as a guardian of human dignity and justice, especially in times of rapid innovation,” he said.
With a background in missionary work in Peru, Pope Leo is seen as a moderate voice who may offer unity to the global Church of 1.4 billion members.
His first steps as pontiff suggest a blend of humility, continuity, and renewed purpose.
