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Today marks a sacred day for the globe’s billion-plus Catholics with the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV.
For the numerous global leaders gathering at the Vatican event, it offers a unique chance to advocate for peace amidst ongoing conflicts in both Europe and the Middle East.
Pilgrims gathered in great number in St Peter’s Square in honour of the new leader of the Catholic Church.
Australians present included South Australian farmer David Greenslade and his partner Tracy Pel.
“I mentioned to everyone at the Mount Barker football club that I’m heading to Rome, and I might as well meet the Pope. They said it wouldn’t happen, but yes, I did,” he shared with 9News.
Kings, queens, politicians and everyday Catholics gather for Pope Leo mass
One Victorian family adjusted its European holiday to be in town.
“We just thought thought it was a moment in history we don’t want to miss,” Nadia Edwards said.
Ahead of the papal mass, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited a Rome chapel run by the Australian Catholic Church.
“There’s such joy in the city at the moment watching pilgrims come up the via Conciliazione,” Greg Bennet, the Bishop of Sale said.
While Pope Leo’s inauguration is a sacred ceremony, it also serves as a vital occasion for attending world leaders to seek peace and address enduring issues of conflict.
US Vice President JD Vance leads the American delegation having met Pope Leo’s predecessor the day before he died
Kings and queens, prime ministers and presidents are also attending.
Albanese is to meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen after the inauguration to resurrect free trade talks with the EU.
“We’re up for a deal, but not any deal at any price. We’re up for a deal that’s in Australia’s national interest,” he said.
“I think what this demonstrates is that the world is willing to trade around the US rather than having to trade with the US,” Nationals leader David Littleproud said.
Diplomatic speed-dating will also include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Jenkins, a former teacher, was fighting for Ukraine when he was caught by Russia, with Vladimir Putin’s regime sentencing him to 13 years in jail.
“We consider this to be a sham trial and we don’t believe Mr Jenkins should be treated this way,” Queensland Senator Murray Watt said.
“Let’s be very clear, this sentence by Russia is an outrage,” Albanese said.
There’s hope Jenkins may be part of a prisoner swap between Ukraine and Russia.
