On Sunday, May 18th, the liturgical ceremony that officially inaugurated the Pontificate of His Holiness Leo XIV took place in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Before more than 150 delegations from around the world and approximately 250,000 faithful, the Holy Father received the pallium and the Fisherman’s Ring, marking the beginning of the Petrine ministry of the Bishop of Rome. These symbols represent the formal assumption of the papal office as Successor of Saint Peter and the universal pastor of the Church.
In addition to the official Government Delegation — composed of H.E. the Grand Commander, the Grand Chancellor, and the Grand Hospitaller, and led by H.M.E.H. the Grand Master, Fra’ John T. Dunlap — the Sovereign Order of Malta was represented by its Ambassador to the Holy See and members of the Embassy staff.