On May 11, 2025, VATICAN CITY witnessed a significant moment as Pope Leo XIV celebrated a private Mass near the tomb of St. Peter. This Mass took place in the grottoes beneath St. Peter's Basilica, a site of profound historical and spiritual importance, traditionally recognized as the burial place of St. Peter, the apostle regarded as the first pope in Christian tradition. Accompanying the pope was the head of the Augustinian order, Rev. Alejandro Moral Anton.

The tomb area, typically open to the public, also holds the remains of previous popes, including Pope Benedict XVI. As Pope Leo XIV prepared to make his first public appearance, St. Peter's Square began to fill with a diverse gathering of pilgrims, well-wishers, and curious visitors. The atmosphere was further enlivened by the participation of various marching bands that added to the celebratory ambiance as they entered the square.

Pope Leo XIV, who was elected as the 267th pope just two days prior, on May 9, 2025, is notable for being the first American pope, hailing from Chicago. His election marked a historical milestone for the papacy and the Catholic Church. On May 10, the day before the Mass, he also prayed before the tomb of Pope Francis, located at St. Mary Major Basilica, which is across town from St. Peter’s Basilica.

The pope's private Mass and subsequent public blessing were highly anticipated events, underscoring a message of peace and unity that he shared with the world during his initial appearance from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica. This moment signifies the continuity and evolution of the papacy in the modern era, capturing the attention of millions around the globe.

As Pope Leo XIV prepared to address the audience from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, the anticipation continued to build. The event highlighted the significance of the papacy in global affairs, and the gathering of people from all walks of life illustrated the universal appeal of the Catholic Church and its leaders.