Pope Leo XIV First Mass: White smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel on May 8, 2025, confirming Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost’s election as the 267th pope. Now known as Pope Leo XIV, he is the first U.S.-born pontiff in history.
After Pope Francis’ death on April 21, a two-day papal conclave resulted in the selection of the 69-year-old Chicago native. An important turning point in the history of the Church is marked by his choosing.
When Is Pope Leo XIV’s First Mass?
On Friday, May 9, 2025, Pope Leo XIV will celebrate his first Latin Mass. The Sistine Chapel in Vatican City will host the Mass.
When Does Mass Commence?
At 11 a.m., the Mass is supposed to start. local Vatican time (that’s 5 a.m. EDT for viewers in the United States).
Where to Watch the Mass Live
The Vatican will livestream the historic Mass on its official Vatican News YouTube channel, making it accessible to global viewers.
Who Is Pope Leo XIV?
Born Robert Francis Prevost, the new pope studied at Villanova University and the Catholic Theological Union before earning a doctorate in canon law in Rome.
Prevost has spent nearly four decades serving between Peru and Chicago, including as the Bishop of Chiclayo and more recently, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.
A Message of Peace and Mission
Upon stepping onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV greeted the crowd with the words: “Peace be with you all.” He emphasized the Church’s ongoing mission of peace, justice, and global unity.
A Brief Recap Who: Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost
- Where: Vatican’s Sistine Chapel
- At 11 a.m. local time (5 a.m. EDT) on May 9, 2025
- Watch: Vatican News YouTube in real time
Source: USA Today