Eric Patrick
Pope Leo XIV, the first US pontiff, made his debut tour of St Peter’s Square on Sunday in a popemobile, greeting tens of thousands of pilgrims and well-wishers ahead of his inauguration mass.
Robert Francis Prevost, born in Chicago, was elected the 267th pope on May 8 after a secret conclave vote of cardinals that lasted less than 24 hours.
As he rode in a white vehicle, he greeted the enthusiastic crowds by smiling, waving, and making the sign of the cross.
US Vice President JD Vance, and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu are among the hundreds of dignitaries due to attend the inauguration mass that begins at 10:00 am (0800 GMT).
Leo will preside over the ceremony rich in rites and symbols, where he will receive his special papal ring before giving a homily that will set the tone for his papacy.
After spending two decades as a missionary in Peru, the 69-year-old is unknown to many Catholics, but during the past week, he has offered glimpses of the kind of leader he will be.
READ ALSO: PHOTOS: Tinubu Arrives Rome for Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration
Before becoming pope, Leo XIV, on his personal X account reposted criticism of President Donald Trump’s administration over its approach to migration and also pilloried Vance.
First News observe that the X account is no longer accessible.
According to multiple reports, Vance was the last world leader to meet with Pope Francis, the day before the Argentine died on April 21 after 12 years as pontiff.
Other notable guests expected include Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
