A Ceremony Steeped in Tradition
The Palio, a white woolen band adorned with crosses, was placed over Pope Leo XIV’s shoulders during the ceremony. This garment symbolizes his pastoral authority over bishops and his unity with the Church. He also received the Fisherman’s Ring, which depicts St. Peter casting his net — a reference to the Pope’s duty as the “fisher of men” and successor to St. Peter.
The Mass was attended by cardinals, clergy, world leaders, and thousands of pilgrims who traveled to Rome to witness the inauguration of the Church’s new leader.
