Rome,SANA- The inauguration ceremony of “Leo XIV”, as the first American Pope of the Catholic Church, took place in the Vatican today, in the presence of leaders and high-ranking figures from around the world.

According to Reuters, tens of thousands participated in the mass and inauguration ceremony, which was heavily secured.

The Pope will meet delegations and guests after the ceremony. In his first appearance, Pope Leo stressed that peace is the most prominent human need today, declaring that “justice will be his compass, and peace his goal, in a world where conflicts increase”.

 On May 8, the Vatican announced the selection of American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new Pope to lead the Catholic Church, succeeding the late Pope Francis.

Nawal/Mazen Eyon