Pope Leo XIV was formally installed as the Bishop of Rome at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, marking the beginning of his ministry. During his homily, he emphasized the importance of prayer, conversion, and listening to God's voice in building ecclesial communion. He also highlighted the Church of Rome's historic role as a mother and its commitment to serving the community. Before the installation, Pope Leo XIV greeted the mayor of Rome, expressing his desire to serve the people and his hope for the city's continued commitment to values of humanity.
10 days ago
Pope Leo XIV was formally installed as Bishop of Rome on Sunday, May 25, 2025 1. The day included visits to the papal basilicas of St. John Lateran, where he was formally installed, and St. Mary Major 1. The installation Mass at St. John Lateran was concelebrated by Cardinal Baldassare Reina and other clergy from the Rome diocese 1.
Prior to the installation Mass, Pope Leo XIV met with the Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, at the foot of the Capitoline Hill 1 3 5 10. The Pope told the mayor, "Today I can say that through you and with you, I am Roman," emphasizing his connection to the city 3 10. He also stressed collaboration with local institutions for the common good and acknowledged the city's role in organizing the Jubilee of Hope 1 3 5 10. Gualtieri assured the Pope of Rome's commitment to being a "loyal ally" in his pastoral mission 3 10.
During his homily at St. John Lateran, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of ecclesial communion built through prayer and conversion 1 4 6 7 9 11. He reflected on the challenges faced by early Christians and the need for patience and mutual listening 1 4 6 7 9 11. The Pope highlighted the Church of Rome's unique mission as "mother of all the churches," emphasizing tenderness, self-sacrifice, and the capacity to listen 1 4 6 7 9 11. He expressed his desire to contribute to the ongoing synodal process in the Diocese of Rome by listening to everyone and making decisions together 1 4 6 7 9 11.
Following the installation Mass, Pope Leo XIV visited St. Mary Major, where he prayed before the tomb of Pope Francis and the Maria Salus Populi Romani icon 1 5 9. He greeted members of his diocese gathered there and thanked them for their welcome 1.
The ongoing Jubilee of Hope, inaugurated by Pope Francis, was a recurring theme throughout the day 1 3 5 10. Pope Leo XIV voiced his gratitude for the city's commitment to organizing the Jubilee and its efforts to welcome pilgrims 1 3 5 10. The Jubilee is seen as an opportunity to transform Rome into a more just, sustainable, and inclusive city 3 5 10.
What is the significance of the Bishop of Rome?
The Bishop of Rome holds a highly significant position in the Catholic Church. This significance is rooted in the belief that the Bishop of Rome is the successor of St. Peter, to whom Christ gave a unique role among the Apostles .
Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of the Bishop of Rome's significance:
Successor of St. Peter: The Catholic Church teaches that the Bishop of Rome is the successor of St. Peter in his role of primacy in the universal Church . The New Testament describes Peter as the leader and spokesman of the Apostles . According to Catholic doctrine, Jesus gave Peter a unique position, and this role is passed on to his successors .
Visible Head of the Church: The Pope, as Bishop of Rome, is the visible head of the Church on earth and the Vicar of Christ . He is the perpetual and visible source and foundation of the unity of the Church .
Primacy of Authority: The Roman Pontiff has full, supreme, immediate, and universal power over the whole Church, which he can always exercise unhindered . As the successor of Peter, the Pope has supreme, full, immediate, and universal authority over the care of souls by divine institution .
Foundation of Unity: The Bishop of Rome is the perpetual and visible principle and foundation of unity for both the bishops and the faithful . The Pope, as the Successor of Peter, has a specific ministerial grace for serving the unity of faith and communion, which is necessary for the Church to fulfill its saving mission .
Role in Teaching and Ruling: The Roman Pontiff is the visible head of the College of Bishops and of the entire People of God . As Vicar of Christ and Shepherd of the whole Church, he fulfills his universal office of teaching and ruling, always for the welfare and spiritual development of the People of God .
In summary, the Bishop of Rome's significance lies in his role as the successor of St. Peter, the visible head of the Church, and the ultimate source of unity, authority, and guidance for Catholics worldwide.