Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost of the United States, celebrated his first Mass as head of the Catholic Church on Friday in a solemn ceremony held within the Sistine Chapel.
The private liturgical gathering, attended by members of the College of Cardinals, marked the beginning of Leo XIV’s spiritual leadership following his election to the papacy.
Video footage released by the Vatican shows the new pontiff presiding over the Mass beneath Michelangelo’s famed frescoes, underscoring the weight of tradition and the sacredness of the moment.
Pope Leo XIV’s election has drawn international attention, particularly as he becomes the first American-born pope in the history of the Church.
