Pope Leo XIV's inauguration Mass will be held on May 18th in St. Peter's Square, marking the official start of his pontificate. The ceremony will follow the "Order of Rites of the Beginning of the Petrine Ministry," including the presentation of the pallium and fisherman's ring. On May 25th, he'll take canonical possession of St. John Lateran Basilica, signifying his role as Bishop of Rome. The Mass will feature the "Laudes Regiae" and Gospel readings in Greek and Latin, reflecting the universal nature of the Catholic Church. Subsequent visits to other papal basilicas will follow.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.