CHICAGO (WLS) — Pope Leo XIV is just beginning his first full day as pontiff.
He led Mass at the Sistine Chapel and speaking before the cardinals who appointed him.
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The pope makes history as the first American and he is from Chicago.
Pope Leo XIV gave his first homily beginning in English, another moment marking the significance for American Catholics.
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The Vatican announced he will be formally installed as pope at a special Mass on May 18.
Video footage captures intimate moments that unfolded behind closed doors overnight, including a surprising visit by the pope at the Vatican Palace, his residence until Thursday night.
He greeted the faithful, took photos with people, gave smiles and shook hands and gave everyone a blessing.
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On Thursday, Father Jack Wall, the pastor emeritus at Old St. Pat’s, was present in St. Peter’s Square during these events and shared his thoughts on the significance for Catholics in Chicago.
“It’s truly an extraordinary experience to witness someone who hails from our neighborhoods. I actually grew up in the same communities as he did, attended the same grammar school, and to see an individual emerging from our roots, nurtured by his family and the good families within our Church community, it’s simply incredible,” expressed Fr. Wall. “He is one of us. There’s a poignant scripture verse, ‘What good can ever come out of Nazareth?’ It evokes a similar sentiment from Dolton, Illinois. This man has stepped into the spotlight, ready to share all his gifts and talents with the world…I am deeply moved just reflecting on it.”
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Wall said that is what he was feeling when seeing an American pope on the balcony.
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