Pope Leo XIV Broke a Major Rule During

Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration marked a historic shift for the Catholic Church as the first American pontiff. Breaking with tradition, he delivered part of his first Mass in English and rode in an open Popemobile—symbolizing his commitment to accessibility. His calls for unity resonated with attendees like Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy, though his past critiques of U.S. politicians like VP JD Vance drew conservative backlash. Notably absent was President Trump, who sent Vance as his representative despite previously praising the election of an American pope.

The event also highlighted evolving Vatican protocols for royal attendees. While Queen Letizia of Spain and Princess Charlene of Monaco wore traditional black veils—a funeral requirement—they’ve historically exercised the rare “privilege of white” for other papal events. This centuries-old tradition, reserved for seven Catholic royal women, reflects the Church’s diplomatic ties with monarchies. Pope Leo XIV’s unconventional start suggests a papacy willing to modernize while navigating complex global and political relationships.