On May 18, 2025, Pope Leo XIV was formally inaugurated at the Vatican. The beginning of his papacy was marked by a historic ceremony and the traditional presentation of the Fisherman’s Ring.
The inauguration mass was steeped in centuries-old traditions. It drew a massive audience both in person and online. Over 150 world leaders and dignitaries attended the mass. It shows the global significance of the occasion and the Catholic Church’s everlasting influence on international affairs.
The Fisherman’s Ring has long been regarded as one of the most sacred symbols of papal authority. It was placed on Pope Leo’s finger in a formal rite and was witnessed by millions worldwide. Its presentation marks the official start of a pope’s pastoral duties and reinforces his role as the spiritual successor to Saint Peter.
As the ring was bestowed upon him, Pope Leo XIV appeared visibly emotional. His eyes welled with tears. It truly captured a deeply human moment in a ceremony defined by tradition and grandeur.
Pope Leo XIV is brought to tears as he receives the Fisherman’s Ring at his inauguration as Bishop of Rome and Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church pic.twitter.com/gZ8iI05r4M
— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 18, 2025
Social media platforms were quick to light up with reactions to the pope’s emotional response. Clips of the moment were circulated widely and prompted thousands of comments. Viewers all over the world praised the sincerity and humility expressed by the newly appointed pontiff.
Many online commentators talked about the ceremony and highlighted the authenticity of Pope Leo’s reaction. “You can see the weight of the responsibility on his face,” one viewer posted. Others described the pope’s tears as a powerful symbol of the gravity of the situation, spirituality, and personal significance of the role he now has.
The Fisherman’s Ring is more than just an accessory. It is traditionally crafted in gold and bears an image of Saint Peter. It shows St. Peter casting his net. The ring signifies the pope’s role as the “fisher of men.” This emblem ties the pope directly to Saint Peter, who is recognized by Catholics as the first leader of the Church.
💍⚒️ The Mysterious Death Ritual of the Fisherman’s Ring
Every pope wears it.
Every pope loses it.
And when he dies, the Fisherman’s Ring is smashed — a powerful act that ends his reign forever
But where did this strange tradition come from?Let’s dive into the secret story… pic.twitter.com/S6ORz8V1BE
— MindVoyager (@Karol1669024) April 26, 2025
The ring is used for ceremonial purposes such as the sealing of official documents. It is a visible representation of the authority, responsibility, and unity of the papacy.
The ring is rooted in ancient church history. It has biblical significance. It symbolizes both the continuity of faith and the start of a new chapter for the Catholic community. It represents the end of one papal era and the beginning of another.
Pope Leo has also decided to use the same crucifix-topped staff that was once held by Saint John Paul II. It added further depth to his vision of his papacy. It signaled reverence for the past alongside a forward-looking vision.
Vice President J.D. Vance represented the United States at Pope Leo XIV inauguration. You will notice he doesn’t kiss the papal ring. As a Catholic, I’m sure he wanted to. pic.twitter.com/C4KcFeg6Fc
— Shane Schaetzel (@ShaneSchaetzel) May 18, 2025
Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, and Ukrainian President Zelensky were among the several world leaders who attended the inauguration ceremony. The Security was tight but not without some flexibility. Pope Leo used the iconic popemobile to engage directly with the crowd and evoked past papal connections with the faithful.
The seagull was at Pope Leo XIV’s mass of inauguration! pic.twitter.com/AWTGAOJpdW
— cassie 🇻🇦 (@CatholicCassie) May 18, 2025
The inauguration of Pope Leo XIV marks a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church. This era will be defined by emotional resonance, symbolic continuity, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Pope Leo carries with him the legacy of those who came before and the hope of a more united and compassionate Church.
Here are a few glimpses of Papal Inauguration Ceremony.
He looked visible emotional looking at the ring and was possibly thinking of all the responsibilities on his shoulder.
HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr meets Pope Leo XIV.
Pope Leo with Ukrainian President Zelensky. (Image Credit: ArtCandee/X.Com)Pope Leo granted a private audience to President Zelenskyy.
