Overview

• Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, will represent His Majesty the King at Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration mass.
• The formal installation of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, will take place on May 18, 2025, in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City.
• The announcement highlights the British monarchy’s diplomatic role in engaging with the Vatican during a significant religious milestone.
• Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration is part of a packed schedule of Holy Year events and early papal engagements inherited from his predecessor.
• This marks a key moment in the intersection of royal protocol and the historic transition within the Roman Catholic Church.