The Catholic Church has a new leader, Pope Leo XIV, who was elected by cardinals to be its 267th head. He’s 69 years old. The Pope held his first mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City on May 9, 2025. The ceremony was watched worldwide through live broadcasts.
A Message of Hope
In his address to cardinals and followers, Pope Leo XIV spoke about challenges facing the Church. He said faith is being tested by modern influences like technology, money, and power. The Pope emphasized the Church’s role in guiding people through these difficult times. He called on the Church to be a “light in the darkness,” spreading hope and promoting human dignity.
Pope’s Background
Before becoming Pope, Leo XIV worked as a missionary with the Augustinian order. He spent over 20 years helping the poor in Peru, where he gained citizenship in 2015. He’s known for his progressive views and support for human rights, following the path set by Pope Francis.
The Catholic community and the world are now waiting to see how Pope Leo XIV will lead the Church.
- He’ll lead the Regina Coeli prayer next Sunday, a traditional event that draws significant attention.
- A press conference is scheduled for Monday, where he’ll likely address questions about his vision for the Church.
People worldwide are watching closely to understand his approach to guiding the Catholic Church in modern times.