When Pope Leo XIV stepped into the spotlight in St. Peter’s Square on May 18, 2025, the world didn’t just witness the start of a new papacy, it witnessed a moment that shattered protocol and shook up centuries of tradition.
As the first American pope in history, Leo XIV was always going to make headlines. But no one predicted just how personal, bold, and unapologetically modern his debut would be.
A Star-Studded Crowd in the Vatican
Nearly 200,000 pilgrims packed into the square, shoulder to shoulder, as the bells rang out across Rome. The inauguration Mass, held less than a month after the death of Pope Francis, brought out royalty, world leaders, and VIPs from across the globe.
Among those spotted in the crowd:
- Princess Charlene of Monaco,
- Queen Letizia of Spain,
- Queen Maxima of the Netherlands,
- and Canadian PM Mark Carney,
…alongside dignitaries like Prince Edward, Australian PM Anthony Albanese, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Why Trump Didn’t Attend — And Who He Sent Instead
While global dignitaries gathered at St. Peter’s Square for Pope Leo XIV’s historic inauguration, President Donald Trump was notably absent, but for good reason.
The president was already committed to a high-profile diplomatic tour of the Middle East, marking his first major overseas visit of his second term. The multi-country trip included stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE, where he met with key regional allies to discuss trade, defense, and energy partnerships.
Although Trump had previously praised the election of an American pope as a “great honor,” the White House prioritized ongoing strategic talks abroad, and sent a trusted representative in his place: Vice President JD Vance.
Vance led the U.S. delegation with quiet diplomacy, and was seen in attendance alongside other global leaders.
“The president’s schedule had long been set, and VP Vance represented the U.S. with full respect,” a senior administration official said.
An Entrance That Took Rome’s Breath Away
As the crowd erupted in cheers, Pope Leo XIV rolled in, not behind bulletproof glass, but in an open-air vehicle, arms outstretched, smiling and waving to the masses.
“It was electric,” said one witness. “He looked like a man on a mission, not just for the Church, but for everyone.”
It was a throwback to Pope Francis’s stripped-down style, but with a distinctly American edge, bold, unfiltered, and full of energy.
Then came the homily, and with it, a message that surprised even seasoned Vatican insiders.
“Peter Must Not Be an Autocrat”
Speaking with emotion and directness, Pope Leo XIV told the world:
“Peter must shepherd the flock without ever yielding to the temptation to be an autocrat… he is called to serve the faith of his brothers and sisters, and to walk alongside them.”
He denounced “religious propaganda,” emphasized servant leadership, and used the word “unity” seven times in just a few minutes, leaving no doubt about his central mission.
Chicago Accent, Global Message
Just days earlier, during a private Mass in the Sistine Chapel, the Pope broke another unspoken rule, he opened his remarks in English.
“I will sing a new song to the Lord,” he began, voice carrying the soft lilt of his native Chicago. He then transitioned into Italian, but the message was clear: this Pope speaks a new language, in every sense.
A Meeting With Zelenskyy—and a Prayer for Peace
Following the ceremony, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska met privately with the Pope. Later that day, Zelenskyy posted on Instagram:
“The Pontiff is a symbol of hope for peace. The authority and voice of the Holy See can play an important role in bringing this war to an end.”
He also praised the Vatican’s offer to host direct peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
But Not Everyone Was Applauding
Back in the U.S., not everyone was thrilled.
Old social media posts criticizing Vice President JD Vance’s brand of Christianity resurfaced, prompting backlash from some conservative circles. Steve Bannon lashed out:
“It is shocking that a guy could be selected to be the Pope who had that Twitter feed,” Bannon said, warning of a potential clash between Rome and Washington.
Though the Pope has steered clear of direct political statements, his pro-immigrant rhetoric and admiration for Pope Francis have made him a target among hardliners on the American right.
Family Speaks Out
In a rare interview, the Pope’s brother, John Prevost, shared a glimpse into the man behind the mitre:
“He won’t just sit back. I don’t think he’ll be the silent one.”
A Papacy That’s Already Rewriting the Rules
From his open-air debut to his unifying message and willingness to ruffle feathers, Pope Leo XIV isn’t just leading the Church, he’s shaking it up.
Whether you call it bold or controversial, one thing’s for sure:
This new Pope isn’t following a script. He’s writing his own.
