Pope Leo XIV begins pontificate in historic inaugural mass at the Vatican

Pope Leo XIV leads the inauguration Mass of his Papacy [Courtesy/Getty Images]

Pope Leo XIV officially began his papacy on Sunday during a grand inaugural Mass at St Peter's Square, attended by over 200,000 faithful and global dignitaries.

Clad in striking white and gold papal vestments, the first American pope presided over the Mass while holding the staff of Pope John Paul II - a poignant tribute as the day also marked John Paul II's birthday.