Pope Leo XIV Celebrates First Mass in Sistine Chapel

Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected Pope and has taken the name Pope Leo XIV. He celebrated his first mass in the Sistine Chapel and will later dine with the cardinals before they are free to leave the Vatican. The Chinese government has sent congratulations to the new pope, expressing hope for continued dialogue with the Vatican in a constructive spirit. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has also sent congratulations, stating that Taiwan looks forward to strengthening ties to promote peace and justice.

Cardinal Robert Prevost, who took the name Pope Leo XIV, celebrated his first mass in the Sistine Chapel on May 9, 2025, marking the beginning of his pontificate. The mass, which was attended by cardinals and other Vatican officials, was held in a private ceremony, followed by a lunch with the cardinals [1].

Pope Leo XIV's election has received global attention, with notable reactions from various world leaders. The Chinese government has sent congratulations, expressing hope for continued dialogue with the Vatican in a constructive spirit [2]. Similarly, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te has sent congratulations, stating that Taiwan looks forward to strengthening ties to promote peace and justice [3].

The election of Pope Leo XIV is significant for several reasons. He is the first American pope, a position that has traditionally been held by European leaders. His election has been celebrated across Latin America, particularly in Peru, where he served as a bishop for over a decade [4]. The new pope's background and experience, including his work as a leading candidate for the papacy and his role in reforming the Vatican's Dicastery for Bishops, have contributed to his selection [5].

Pope Leo XIV's first mass and subsequent lunch with the cardinals are part of the traditional rituals following his election. This private ceremony is a significant milestone in the new pontiff's tenure, setting the tone for his leadership and governance of the Catholic Church.

References:
[1] https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/may/09/pope-leo-xiv-to-hold-first-mass-pontiff-catholics-celebrate-live
[2] https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/may/09/pope-leo-xiv-to-hold-first-mass-pontiff-catholics-celebrate-live
[3] https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/may/09/pope-leo-xiv-to-hold-first-mass-pontiff-catholics-celebrate-live
[4] https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/may/09/pope-leo-xiv-to-hold-first-mass-pontiff-catholics-celebrate-live
[5] https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/may/09/pope-leo-xiv-to-hold-first-mass-pontiff-catholics-celebrate-live