attends the Solemn Mass marking the beginning of the Pontificate of His Holiness
, held at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City.
The Head of State sat in the front row to listen to the Mass, alongside U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance.
The Executive Branch authorities were received by the Holy See's official delegation, led by Monsignor Gabriel Viola.
Unlike the conclave ceremony held behind closed doors, the coronation is conducted publicly to consecrate the religious leader chosen by his peers in the Catholic Church.
The Supreme Pontiff —born in the United States and also a Peruvian citizen— received the pallium and the Fisherman's Ring, symbols of papal authority.
Around 150 international delegations are attending the ceremony.
With this Eucharistic celebration taking place in St. Peter's Basilica and the square in front of it, Leo XIV (Bishop of Rome) officially begins his Petrine Ministry as the Apostle Peter's successor and, therefore, as Pastor of the Catholic Church.
According to the Supreme Pontiff's Office for Liturgical Celebrations, the rite includes several moments of great symbolic value, among which the ancient Petrine episcopal insignias: The Pallium and the Fisherman's Ring stand out.