Pope Leo XIV Celebrates First Mass as First American Pope

Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff, celebrated his inaugural Mass today in the Sistine Chapel, just one day after being elected. Dozens of cardinals gathered beneath the iconic ceiling painted by Michelangelo, wearing white vestments and bishop's miters.

The new pope, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago, began the ceremony with Bible readings in both English and Spanish—reflecting his personal and pastoral background. In his first homily, he urged the clergy to embrace humility, echoing the tone set by his predecessor, Pope Francis. He also offered prayers for global peace and unity.

The 69-year-old entered the papal conclave with limited public attention but quickly emerged as a unifying figure. Ordained in 1982, he spent nearly four decades as a missionary in Peru before being elevated to cardinal and returning to Rome in 2023.

After the white smoke signaled his election, Pope Leo XIV greeted a cheering crowd from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica with the words, “Peace be with you all.” He spoke in both Italian and Spanish, honoring Pope Francis and pledging to build bridges through dialogue and compassion.

Back home in Palm Springs, local reaction to the historic moment is emotional and celebratory. At St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, Father David Foxen admitted the name surprised him at first. “I had to stop and think, who are they talking about?” he said. “Then I realized it was the cardinal who led the consistory.”

At Sacred Heart School, students eagerly followed the election process. They researched the conclave and tracked the signals of white and black smoke. “We were happy and excited when the white smoke came out,” one student shared.

For many, the fact that the pope is American is exciting—but his global outlook and missionary background are just as significant. “He’ll make changes, but he’ll do it slowly and in a very reflective way,” said Father David, noting the new pontiff’s deep roots in the gospel.

This marks the 267th papal conclave and a major milestone in Catholic Church history.

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