The Pope has taken office! First visit to Türkiye

Pope Leo, like his predecessor Francis, opted for a low-key ceremony at his inauguration, which began at 9am UK time. The new Pope greeted the crowds in a “popemobile” and chose a vehicle that would allow him to interact directly with the public rather than a bulletproof vehicle.

POPE LEO MOVES TO THE APOSTOLIC PALACE

The new Pope Leo is expected to move into the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican shortly. The iconic 16th-century building overlooks St. Peter’s Square and houses the papal apartments, which consist of a bedroom, study, library, dining area, kitchen and a private chapel. The apartments were last used by Pope Benedict XVI in 2013. Pope Francis broke with this tradition and chose to stay in the Santa Marta Guesthouse.

TRADITION CONTINUES: HUMBLE RAISE INSTEAD OF CORONATION

For centuries, popes were inaugurated with a "triregnum" of three crowns. However, this tradition ended in 1978 when Pope John Paul I was not crowned. Pope Leo also did not continue this tradition and instead of the symbolic crown, he was inaugurated with a simple inauguration ceremony. The ceremony was notable for its simple details that underlined his understanding of establishing a closer relationship with the people.

WORLD LEADERS MET IN THE VATICAN

Pope Leo’s inauguration was also a major gathering for global diplomacy. Prince Edward represented the United Kingdom, but Buckingham Palace did not provide any explanation as to why King Charles was absent. A similar situation had previously occurred at Pope Francis’ funeral.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was present at the ceremony, while his aide Andriy Yermak reported that Pope Leo planned to hold private meetings with some world leaders during the ceremony.

Among those attending the ceremony from the United States were Senator JD Vance and his wife Usha Vance. Vance was one of the last American politicians to meet with Pope Francis last month. The official American delegation was led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney attended the ceremony and held diplomatic contacts during his three-day visit to Rome.

POPE LEO'S FIRST OVERSEAS VISIT IS TO Türkiye

One of the most striking statements of the ceremony was about Pope Leo's first visit abroad. When a journalist reminded him that Pope Francis had planned to go to Türkiye for the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, but had passed away before he could fulfill this wish, Pope Leo replied, "I know that. We are preparing."

The First Council of Nicaea, convened in 325 at the invitation of Roman Emperor Constantine I, is considered a major turning point in Christian history. Pope Leo's meaningful visit to Türkiye will be a historical symbol due to the 1700th anniversary of the council.

Source: TELE1