Pope Leo XIV Celebrates Inaugural Mass as Head of Catholic Church

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.

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Until 60 Years Ago, New Popes Were Crowned

Pope Leo XIV presided over his inaugural Mass on Sunday. Years ago, it would have included a solemn moment when the pontiff was crowned with an elaborate gold and jewel-encrusted papal tiara.

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How a Quiet American Cardinal Became Pope

At a conclave with many new members, a swift, stunning consensus built around an unknown to many outside of the church.

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Pope Leo XIV Calls for End to War in First Sunday Blessing as Pontiff

The new pope echoed themes that Francis, his predecessor, regularly addressed, as he appeared in front of thousands of the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

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Pope Leo XIV Overcame a Major Strike Against Him: Being American

Before he was chosen, Robert Francis Prevost had the papal seal of approval from his predecessor, Francis, who put him in one of the top jobs in the Roman Catholic Church.

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The Pope Is a Graduate of Villanova, Where the Church Bells Won’t Stop Ringing

The private Catholic university in the suburbs of Philadelphia has a new most famous alumnus.

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The Real Stars of the Papal Conclave: Seagulls

Perched on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, three birds were the among the first to glimpse the white smoke signaling a new pope.

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After White Smoke Signals a New Pope, What Happens Next?

A successor to Pope Francis had been elected. But there will be a short wait before his identity becomes clear.

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The Moment Pope Leo XIV Emerged on the Balcony

Crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square — and around the world — to see who had been elected as Pope Francis’ successor.

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