VATICAN CITY - Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected leader of the Roman Catholic Church and the first American to hold the position, is scheduled to celebrate his inaugural mass this Sunday at St. Peter's Basilica. The Vatican made the announcement earlier this week, confirming that the ceremony will be open to the public, although security measures will be heightened.
Among those expected to attend is Senator JD Vance, who publicly congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election last month. Vance's presence at the mass underscores the significance of the event both within the Catholic community and in the broader political landscape.
The inaugural mass is a traditional ceremony that marks the beginning of a new pope's reign. During the mass, Pope Leo XIV will receive the pallium, a woolen vestment symbolizing his authority as shepherd of the Church. Thousands of pilgrims from around the world are expected to gather in Rome to witness the historic event.
Pope Leo XIV Inaugural Mass Set for Sunday; Vance to Attend
Pope Leo XIV, the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church as pontiff, will hold his inaugural mass this Sunday. The Vatican confirmed the event, which is expected to draw a large crowd. Senator JD Vance is also slated to attend the ceremony. The mass marks the official start of Pope Leo XIV's papacy.
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