• Pope Leo XIV emphasizes the need for the Catholic Church to be a guiding beacon against societal darkness.
• He acknowledges significant challenges, including budget issues and inclusivity debates within the Church.
• Leo, the first US pope, plans to uphold the legacy of his predecessor while addressing modern issues.

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel where he was elected less than 24 hours earlier, praying that his historic papacy can help the Catholic Church illuminate "the dark nights of this world." During his sermon, he expressed the hope to serve as a "faithful administrator" for the entire Church, emphasizing the importance of the holiness of its members over material grandeur, according to The Jakarta Post.

The newly inaugurated Pope Leo, former Cardinal Robert Prevost, delivered his homily both in English and fluent Italian, painting a vision of the Church focused on compassion and social justice. "A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life," he stated, acknowledging the challenges posed by modern society, which include the need for greater inclusivity towards marginalized communities like the LGBT population, as reported by South China Morning Post and Channel News Asia.

At 69 years old, Leo was elected at the conclusion of a swift conclave, which took just two days. His election was seen as a surprise, particularly as US cardinals had been largely dismissed as contenders, largely due to perceptions about an American pope's suitability. Despite this, Leo's dual citizenship with Peru enriches his perspective on both Western and developing worlds, according to India Times and Dawn.

Following his Mass, Leo addressed cardinals, describing himself as an "unworthy" successor to St. Peter and identifying the need for healing divisions within the Church. The atmosphere surrounding his election has been one of optimism, as many hope he can restore faith among the faithful amidst current societal challenges, according to BBC and Channel News Asia.

Leaders globally, including U.S. President Donald Trump, have extended their congratulations to Pope Leo, though his past criticisms of Trump and others are noteworthy. With a commitment to continuing the legacy of Pope Francis, Leo emphasizes social justice, mercy, and a focus on the Church's mission to support the marginalized, according to South China Morning Post and India Times.

Pope Leo is set to officially inaugurate his papacy during a mass in St. Peter's Square on May 18, with widespread anticipation surrounding the event and his forthcoming public engagements. As the first pope from the U.S., the global Catholic community is hopeful for a renewed commitment to inclusivity and openness during his leadership, as noted by Dawn and Channel News Asia.