Pope Leo XIV, First American Pope, Celebrates First Mass to Illuminate World's 'Dark Nights'

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, celebrated his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel on Friday, less than 24 hours after his election. He expressed hope that his papacy could help the Catholic Church serve as a beacon of light to the world's 'dark nights.' Leading 1.4 billion Catholics, Leo, aged 69, is the first American pope and was elected following a two-day conclave signaled by white smoke, becoming the 267th pontiff and successor to Pope Francis. Born in Chicago and having spent two decades as a missionary in Peru, Leo holds both US and Peruvian citizenship. His election marks a historic moment as he brings a focus on social justice, echoing the priorities of his predecessor. In his homily, delivered in Italian after a brief introduction in English, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Church's role as a 'faithful administrator' and a source of light and salvation. He acknowledged the challenges facing the Church, including a perceived decline in faith, and has a history of criticism towards the policies of US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The new pope also faces issues regarding the Church's stance on the LGBT community, divorcees, and the role of women.