New Pope Leo XIV celebrates first Mass

Pope Leo XIV during a Mass with cardinals at the Sistine Chapel. PIC/AFP

Pope Leo XIV, history's first North American pope, celebrated his first Mass as pontiff on Friday, presiding in the Sistine Chapel with the cardinals who elected him to succeed Pope Francis and follow in his social justice-minded footsteps. Wearing white vestments, Leo processed into the Sistine Chapel and blessed the cardinals as he approached the altar and Michelangelo's ‘The Last Judgment' behind it.

The occasion also marked the first time that Leo made public remarks in English, after he spoke only in Italian and Spanish in his first comments. "You have called me to carry the cross and to be blessed," Leo XIV addressed cardinals at the start of his first Mass, asking for their assistance.

PM Modi extends wishes to Pope

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended wishes to Pope Leo XIV. Modi said on X: "...Sincere felicitations and best wishes from the people of India to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. His leadership of the Catholic Church comes at a moment of profound significance in advancing the ideals of peace, harmony, solidarity and service. India remains committed to continued dialogue and engagement with the Holy See..."

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