Pope Leo XIV hopped on his popemobile for the first time, cruising through St. Peter’s Square to greet a massive crowd of fans. The historic installation ceremony for the first American pope was a star-studded event, with presidents, patriarchs, and princes in attendance. Leo waved from the back of the truck as it made its way through the square and up and down the boulevard, soaking in the cheers of the crowd shouting “Viva il Papa” and waving flags from various nations.
Who doesn’t love a good popemobile ride? Leo’s tour through the square symbolized the papacy’s global influence and media appeal, bringing him closer to his followers both at home and abroad. It was a bittersweet moment, as Francis had taken his final popemobile ride on Easter Sunday, and his casket was transported across Rome on a similar vehicle last month. Security was tight as the masses gathered in the square, with civil protection crews guiding pilgrims to their designated areas and priests preparing for the Mass inside St. Peter’s Basilica.
As the ceremony unfolded, guests like US Vice President JD Vance and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte took their seats in the front row, honoring Leo’s dual citizenship. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, as pilgrims from all over the world flocked to witness this historic moment. The Mass itself was a powerful display of tradition and symbolism, with Leo receiving the pallium and the fisherman’s ring, two iconic symbols of the papacy. The rite of obedience to Leo highlighted the unity of the Church, with representatives from various sectors pledging their loyalty to the new pope.