How Pope Leo XIV celebrated first mass in Sistine chapel

Newly elected Pope Leo XIV has celebrated his first Mass in the iconic Sistine Chapel, just a day after making history as the first North American pontiff.

Speaking to the College of Cardinals after his election, the 69-year-old Chicago-born Robert Prevost—now Pope Leo XIV—expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and vowed to lead the Catholic Church with humility and purpose.

“You have called me to be blessed with the mission of leading the Church,” the new Pope said. “I know I can rely on each and every one of you to walk with me as we continue as a Church, as a community of friends of Jesus, as believers, to announce the good news, to announce the Gospel.”

A respected reformist, Pope Leo XIV brings with him decades of experience, including years spent as a missionary in Peru—a country he has often referred to as his “second homeland.” His work there has endeared him to many in Latin America, with Peruvians expressing deep pride in his elevation to the papacy.

Among the congratulatory messages was one from U.S. President Donald Trump, who described the moment as a “great honour.”