Tens of thousands came to St. Peter’s Square to mark the official start of the pontificate of the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. Vice President JD Vance was among the dignitaries who attended.

The formal inauguration of Leo XIV, the first ever American pope, is underway in a special Mass in St. Peter’s Square attended by world leaders, royalty, and tens of thousands of believers. The 267th pontiff arrived at the Vatican on the popemobile and was welcomed by cheers from the huge crowds as he toured St.