Pope Leo XIV Set to Begin Papal Duties with Mass Installation

Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to be formally installed at a Mass on May 18 and will conduct his first general audience on May 21. His initial agenda includes meetings with key Vatican and global figures. He has asked Vatican office heads to resume their roles temporarily.

The Vatican has announced that Pope Leo XIV will be officially installed on May 18, with a Mass marking the occasion. His first general audience is slated for May 21, a significant event as he steps into his new role as the head of the Catholic Church.

The Vatican released Pope Leo's initial schedule, highlighting meetings with cardinals, Vatican officials, the media, the diplomatic corps, and the general public. These early interactions are crucial as he establishes his papacy.

In a move to maintain continuity, Pope Leo has requested that the heads of Vatican offices, who had technically lost their positions with the passing of Pope Francis, continue in their roles until further notice. Pope Leo intends to use this period for reflection, prayer, and dialogue before making final staffing decisions.

(With inputs from agencies.)