By The Partner Newspaper

The Universal Church celebrated the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV today 18th May 2025 at the Vatican City, in a ceremony attended by a host of world leaders and dignitaries. St. Peter’s Square was filled with hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, clergy, and global representatives, marking a significant moment for the Catholic faith.
The inauguration Mass was a spectacle of tradition and global unity. Notable figures included U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and numerous heads of state from around the world. The presence of such a diverse group of leaders underscored the global influence of the Catholic Church and the new Pope’s role on the world stage.
Pope Leo XIV delivered a homily emphasizing unity, fraternity, and peace. He called for an end to the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, highlighting the suffering of civilians, including children and the elderly. His words resonated with the gathered crowd and were echoed in speeches by several world leaders, who pledged their support for the Pope’s message of reconciliation.
The ceremony included the presentation of the pallium and the Ring of the Fisherman, symbols of papal authority. The event concluded with blessings and greetings, as Pope Leo XIV officially assumed his pontificate. Meanwhile, the Pope was supported with prayers from all the Parishes in Ijebu-Ode Diocese as requested by the Bishop of the Diocese; Most Rev. Francis Adesina. This is a sign of the Universal expression of the Church of Christ.