Reuters reported that Saint Leo XIV will officially take on the role of leader of the worldwide catholic Church on May 18, with the Mass held at St. Petersburg. Peter. This event is expected to attract tens of thousands of followers and many world leaders.
The ceremony is scheduled to start at 10am Italian time (3pm Vietnam) and King Leo XIV will have his first parade by papal car.
Born in Chicago, the 69-year-old cardinal has spent many years as a missionary in Peru. Although born in Chicago (USA), he is also a Peruvian citizen and is the first cardinal of South American descent.
His real name is Robert Prevost and he was elected cardinal on May 8 after being beatified by the late Cardinal Francis 2 years ago. Mr. Prevost always has a view of standing on the side of the poor and disadvantaged in society.
Vice President J.D. Vance will lead the US delegation along with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Both of them are Catholics.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will also attend and be ready to meet other leaders, a senior assistant said.
Earlier, at the funeral of Pope Francis, Mr. Zelensky had a direct meeting with US President Donald Trump right in the St. Petersburg Cathedral Realm. Peter.
The inauguration ceremony in the Vatican will also be attended by the Presidents of Peru, Israel and Nigeria; Prime Ministers of Italy, Canada, Australia, Germany and President of the European Commission (EC) Ursula von der Leyen.
Many members of the European royal family will also sit in the VIP area, including King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain.
