Pope Leo XIV Conducts Mass at St. Peters Tomb, Followed by Public Blessing at Noon

Published: Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 10:06 am

Pope Leo XIV Begins Papacy with Solemn Mass and Blessing

**VATICAN CITY** - Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected pontiff, began his papacy with a series of significant events on Sunday, marking his first full day in office. The day commenced with a private Mass held near the tomb of St. Peter, the apostle and first pope, located in the grottoes beneath St. Peter's Basilica. This sacred space, usually accessible to the public, also houses the tombs of previous popes, including the recently deceased Pope Benedict XVI.

The Mass was attended by Rev. Alejandro Moral Anton, the leader of Pope Leo's Augustinian order, according to Vatican reports. Following the private ceremony, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural Sunday noon blessing from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, a moment eagerly anticipated by the faithful.

Hours before the public blessing, St. Peter's Square was already bustling with activity. Pilgrims, supporters, and curious onlookers gathered, their anticipation fueled by the presence of several marching bands that added to the vibrant atmosphere.

This Sunday's events followed a Saturday visit by Pope Leo to the tomb of Pope Francis at the St. Mary Major Basilica. The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary, elected as the 267th pope on Thursday, is the first American to hold the papacy. His initial address to the world, delivered from the same loggia, focused on messages of peace and unity.

BNN's Perspective: The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, is a historic moment. His early actions, including the Mass at St. Peter's tomb and his public blessing, signal a commitment to tradition while also representing a fresh perspective. The focus on unity and peace in his initial address is a welcome message in a world often marked by division. It will be interesting to see how he navigates the complexities of the papacy and the challenges facing the Catholic Church.

Keywords: Pope Leo XIV, Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, St. Peter's tomb, Mass, Sunday blessing, Pope, Catholic Church, first American pope, inaugural address, peace, unity, Rev. Alejandro Moral Anton, Augustinian order, Pope Benedict XVI, St. Mary Major Basilica, religion, news

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