Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful call for unity and peace during his inaugural Mass on Sunday at the Vatican, attended by tens of thousands of worshippers, global dignitaries, and political leaders. Among them was Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who later met privately with the newly elected pontiff.

In his homily, Pope Leo condemned economic systems that he said exploit the planet's resources and marginalize the poor, adding, “We still see too much discord, too many wounds caused by hatred, violence, prejudice, the fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the Earth's resources and marginalises the poorest.”

The pontiff, who is the first in history with both U.S. and Peruvian heritage, emphasized a leadership style rooted in humility. “I will govern without ever yielding to the temptation to be an autocrat,” he declared.

Following the service, Pope Leo offered a prayer acknowledging ongoing efforts for peace in Ukraine. “The martyred Ukraine is waiting for negotiations for a just and lasting peace to finally happen,” he said, reiterating his offer for the Vatican to serve as a venue for peace talks — a proposal made shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected Zelensky’s invitation to meet in Turkey.

In their subsequent meeting, Zelensky thanked Pope Leo for his "support for Ukraine" and "clear voice in defence of a just and lasting peace."

The inaugural Mass, held in St. Peter’s Square, drew not only Catholic faithful but also global political and religious leaders. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, European royals, and representatives from countries including Germany and Peru were in attendance. Worshippers cheered as the new Pope appeared in his popemobile, circling the square and Via della Conciliazione.

Michelle, a visitor from Germany, described the experience as “very crazy” due to the size of the crowd but said she came “on purpose to see the Pope.” Joe, a tourist from Missouri, added, “It’s very special… I’m extra proud to see the first Pope from the United States.”

Pia, a philosophy professor from Chile at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome, expressed optimism about Pope Leo’s leadership. “There’s a new hope in the church,” she said. “He knows what the world and the church need — a church preaching hope and peace.”

During the inauguration, Pope Leo received traditional symbols of office: the pallium, a woolen garment symbolizing his role as shepherd of the Church, and the Ring of the Fisherman, representing St. Peter. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines led the ceremonial investiture.

Pope Leo XIV concluded the Mass by blessing the crowd with the book of the Gospels, a gesture welcomed with reverent applause — a historic beginning to a pontificate that promises a strong message of peace, unity, and social justice.