When Pope Leo XIV stepped into the role of leader of the Roman Catholic Church, it marked more than just the beginning of a new papacy.
Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration marked a turning point for Catholics worldwide. As the first American elected to the papacy, his rise was already historic. But it was the way he chose to begin his role — not merely who he was — that captured the world’s attention.
From a bold entrance to unexpected choices in language and tone, Pope Leo XIV’s first days suggested a papacy willing to depart from tradition.
Who Attended: Diplomacy and Ceremony in St. Peter’s Square
The Inauguration Mass on May 18, 2025, followed the death of Pope Francis on April 21. In attendance werefrom across the world.
Princess Charlene of Monaco, Queen Letizia of Spain, and Queen Mathilde of Belgium attended with their husbands — Prince Albert, King Felipe VI, and King Philippe, respectively — while other royal representatives included Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands.
Also in attendance were Prince Edward of the United Kingdom, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
But even as dignitaries gathered from across the world to witness the historic moment, one highly anticipated figure was notably absent.
Who Did Not Attend: A Noticeable Absence from Washington
Despite publicly celebrating the election of an American pope, U.S. President Donald Trump the inauguration. He once described the Pope’s selection as a great honor for the United States and expressed hope of meeting him in what he called a meaningful moment.
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