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AP PHOTOS: Pope Leo XIV offers a message of love and unity in inaugural Mass in St. Peter's Square

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AP PHOTOS: Pope Leo XIV offers a message of love and unity in inaugural Mass in St. Peter's Square
News

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AP PHOTOS: Pope Leo XIV offers a message of love and unity in inaugural Mass in St. Peter's Square

2025-05-18 20:01 Last Updated At:20:10

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Leo XIV offered a message of love and unity during an inaugural Mass on Sunday in St. Peter’s Square before an estimated 200,000 pilgrims, presidents, patriarchs and princes.

This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.

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Pope Leo XIV's meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Cardinals and bishops leave after Pope Leo XIV celebrated a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Cardinals and bishops leave after Pope Leo XIV celebrated a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Faithful stand by a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Faithful stand by a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV waves at the end of a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV waves at the end of a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Vice President JD Vance, center, and second lady Usha Vance, center left, attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Vice President JD Vance, center, and second lady Usha Vance, center left, attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Security surrounds Pope Leo XIV as he arrives aboard the popemobile ahead of a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Security surrounds Pope Leo XIV as he arrives aboard the popemobile ahead of a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio takes the Holy Communion as other delegates including Vice President JD Vance, center-left, and second lady Usha Vance, left, kneel in prayer during a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio takes the Holy Communion as other delegates including Vice President JD Vance, center-left, and second lady Usha Vance, left, kneel in prayer during a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV receives the pallium, or lambswool stole, a symbol of the papacy during a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV receives the pallium, or lambswool stole, a symbol of the papacy during a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

People gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

People gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Faithful gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Faithful gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV arrives for the inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV arrives for the inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Cardinals take their places during the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Cardinals take their places during the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Vice President JD Vance, center right, and his wife Usha Vance, center left, attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Vice President JD Vance, center right, and his wife Usha Vance, center left, attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Ukraine's President Volodymr Zelenskyy, left meets Vice President JD Vance as they arrive to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Ukraine's President Volodymr Zelenskyy, left meets Vice President JD Vance as they arrive to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Catholic priests gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Catholic priests gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Cardinals attend a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Cardinals attend a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Guests and dignitaries attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Guests and dignitaries attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

A man takes a mobile phone photo of Vice President JD Vance, center, as he attends the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

A man takes a mobile phone photo of Vice President JD Vance, center, as he attends the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Guests and dignitaries attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Guests and dignitaries attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Ukraine's President Volodymr Zelenskyy, left, and Vice President JD Vance greet each other as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, center, looks on ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Ukraine's President Volodymr Zelenskyy, left, and Vice President JD Vance greet each other as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, center, looks on ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile, bottom, tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile, bottom, tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Faithful wave flags of the United States of America as Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Faithful wave flags of the United States of America as Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Guests and the faithful attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Guests and the faithful attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV waves from aboard the popemobile as he is driven through the crowd for the formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV waves from aboard the popemobile as he is driven through the crowd for the formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Clergy members attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Clergy members attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

People gather to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

People gather to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV waves from aboard the popemobile as he is driven through the crowd for the formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV waves from aboard the popemobile as he is driven through the crowd for the formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

A bird flies by as Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

A bird flies by as Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

A woman waves a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

A woman waves a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

A woman waves a flag from the United States ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A woman waves a flag from the United States ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful hold a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Faithful hold a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

People gather to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

People gather to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

A view of the seats and altar ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

A view of the seats and altar ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

A woman waves a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

A woman waves a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV's meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Cardinals and bishops leave after Pope Leo XIV celebrated a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Cardinals and bishops leave after Pope Leo XIV celebrated a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV meets Vice President JD Vance after the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Faithful stand by a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Faithful stand by a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV waves at the end of a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV waves at the end of a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Vice President JD Vance, center, and second lady Usha Vance, center left, attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Vice President JD Vance, center, and second lady Usha Vance, center left, attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Security surrounds Pope Leo XIV as he arrives aboard the popemobile ahead of a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Security surrounds Pope Leo XIV as he arrives aboard the popemobile ahead of a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025.(AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio takes the Holy Communion as other delegates including Vice President JD Vance, center-left, and second lady Usha Vance, left, kneel in prayer during a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Secretary of State Marco Rubio takes the Holy Communion as other delegates including Vice President JD Vance, center-left, and second lady Usha Vance, left, kneel in prayer during a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV receives the pallium, or lambswool stole, a symbol of the papacy during a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV receives the pallium, or lambswool stole, a symbol of the papacy during a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

People gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

People gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Faithful gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Faithful gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV arrives for the inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV arrives for the inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Cardinals take their places during the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Cardinals take their places during the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Vice President JD Vance, center right, and his wife Usha Vance, center left, attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Vice President JD Vance, center right, and his wife Usha Vance, center left, attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Ukraine's President Volodymr Zelenskyy, left meets Vice President JD Vance as they arrive to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Ukraine's President Volodymr Zelenskyy, left meets Vice President JD Vance as they arrive to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Catholic priests gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Catholic priests gather as Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Cardinals attend a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Cardinals attend a Mass for the formal inauguration of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, in St. Peter's Square, attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV holds Mass during the formal inauguration of his pontificate in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Guests and dignitaries attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Guests and dignitaries attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

A man takes a mobile phone photo of Vice President JD Vance, center, as he attends the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

A man takes a mobile phone photo of Vice President JD Vance, center, as he attends the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Guests and dignitaries attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Guests and dignitaries attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Ukraine's President Volodymr Zelenskyy, left, and Vice President JD Vance greet each other as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, center, looks on ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Ukraine's President Volodymr Zelenskyy, left, and Vice President JD Vance greet each other as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, center, looks on ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile, bottom, tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile, bottom, tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Faithful wave flags of the United States of America as Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Faithful wave flags of the United States of America as Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV celebrates a Mass for the formal inauguration of his pontificate, in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Guests and the faithful attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Guests and the faithful attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV waves from aboard the popemobile as he is driven through the crowd for the formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV waves from aboard the popemobile as he is driven through the crowd for the formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Clergy members attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Clergy members attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV's pontificate in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

People gather to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

People gather to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV waves from aboard the popemobile as he is driven through the crowd for the formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV waves from aboard the popemobile as he is driven through the crowd for the formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

Pope Leo XIV's waves to people before his formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

A bird flies by as Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

A bird flies by as Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontifcate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

A woman waves a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

A woman waves a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

A woman waves a flag from the United States ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

A woman waves a flag from the United States ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Faithful hold a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Faithful hold a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

People gather to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

People gather to attend Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

A view of the seats and altar ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

A view of the seats and altar ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stefano Costantino)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

A woman waves a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

A woman waves a United States flag ahead of Pope Leo XIV's formal inauguration of his pontificate with a Mass in St. Peter's Square attended by heads of state, royalty and ordinary faithful, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Pope Leo XIV on his popemobile tours St. Peter's Square at the Vatican prior to the inaugural Mass of his pontificate, Sunday, May 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

NEW YORK (AP) — Thousands of nurses in three hospital systems in New York City went on strike Monday after negotiations through the weekend failed to yield breakthroughs in their contract disputes.

The strike was taking place at The Mount Sinai Hospital and two of its satellite campuses, with picket lines forming. The other affected hospitals are NewYork-Presbyterian and Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx.

About 15,000 nurses are involved in the strike, according to New York State Nurses Association.

“After months of bargaining, management refused to make meaningful progress on core issues that nurses have been fighting for: safe staffing for patients, healthcare benefits for nurses, and workplace violence protections,” the union said in a statement issued Monday. “Management at the richest hospitals in New York City are threatening to discontinue or radically cut nurses’ health benefits.”

The strike, which comes during a severe flu season, could potentially force the hospitals to transfer patients, cancel procedures or divert ambulances. It could also put a strain on city hospitals not involved in the contract dispute, as patients avoid the medical centers hit by the strike.

The hospitals involved have been hiring temporary nurses to try and fill the labor gap during the walkout, and said in a statement during negotiations that they would “do whatever is necessary to minimize disruptions.” Montefiore posted a message assuring patients that appointments would be kept.

“NYSNA’s leaders continue to double down on their $3.6 billion in reckless demands, including nearly 40% wage increases, and their troubling proposals like demanding that a nurse not be terminated if found to be compromised by drugs or alcohol while on the job," Montefiore spokesperson Joe Solmonese said Monday after the strike had started. "We remain resolute in our commitment to providing safe and seamless care, regardless of how long the strike may last.”

New York-Presbyterian accused the union of staging a strike to “create disruption,” but said in a statement that it has taken steps to ensure patients receive the care they need.

"We’re ready to keep negotiating a fair and reasonable contract that reflects our respect for our nurses and the critical role they play, and also recognizes the challenging realities of today’s healthcare environment,” the statement said.

The work stoppage is occurring at multiple hospitals simultaneously, but each medical center is negotiating with the union independently. Several other hospitals across the city and in its suburbs reached deals in recent days to avert a possible strike.

The nurses’ demands vary by hospital, but the major issues include staffing levels and workplace safety. The union says hospitals have given nurses unmanageable workloads.

Nurses also want better security measures in the workplace, citing incidents like a an incident last week, when a man with a sharp object barricaded himself in a Brooklyn hospital room and was then killed by police.

The union also wants limitations on hospitals’ use of artificial intelligence.

The nonprofit hospitals involved in the negotiations say they’ve been working to improve staffing levels, but say the union’s demands overall are too costly.

Nurses voted to authorize the strike last month.

Both New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani had expressed concern about the possibility of the strike. As the strike deadline neared, Mamdani urged both sides to keep negotiating and reach a deal that “both honors our nurses and keeps our hospitals open.”

“Our nurses kept this city alive through its hardest moments. Their value is not negotiable,” Mamdani said.

State Attorney General Letitia James voiced similar support, saying "nurses put their lives on the line every day to keep New Yorkers healthy. They should never be forced to choose between their own safety, their patients’ well-being, and a fair contract.”

The last major nursing strike in the city was only three years ago, in 2023. That work stoppage, at Mount Sinai and Montefiore, was short, lasting three days. It resulted in a deal raising pay 19% over three years at those hospitals.

It also led to promised staffing improvements, though the union and hospitals now disagree about how much progress has been made, or whether the hospitals are retreating from staffing guarantees.

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside Mount Sinai West Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside Mount Sinai West Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside Mount Sinai West Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside Mount Sinai West Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside Mount Sinai West Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside Mount Sinai West Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside Mount Sinai West Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Nurses strike outside Mount Sinai West Hospital, Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

FILE - A medical worker transports a patient at Mount Sinai Hospital, April 1, 2020, in New York. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

FILE - A medical worker transports a patient at Mount Sinai Hospital, April 1, 2020, in New York. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

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