Pope Leo XIV presided over the baptism of 20 infants under the iconic frescoes of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel on Sunday, upholding a cherished Vatican tradition that concludes the Christmas season.

Addressing the congregation in St. Peter’s Square afterward, the Pope extended blessings to all newborns receiving baptism, particularly highlighting those born under challenging health conditions or facing external adversities.

During his inaugural baptismal ceremony as Pope, Leo underscored the profound gift of faith granted to the children, emphasizing its role in giving life a deeper meaning.

“When something is vital, we instinctively seek it for our loved ones. Who among us would leave a newborn without clothes or food, waiting for them to decide later how to dress or what to eat?” the Pope reflected to the assembled families in the chapel.

“Beloved ones, if food and clothing are essential for living, faith is even more crucial, for through God, life finds salvation,” he added.

The Pope personally baptized the infants, whose parents are Vatican employees. The ceremony, which unfolded smoothly, involved parents, godparents, and siblings gathering around a baptismal font set in a bronze Tree of Life. The event was notably peaceful, with minimal cries from the babies.

The celebration marks the feast day that recalls Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan and was established in 1981 by St. John Paul II. The event is depicted on the Sistine Chapel’s north wall in a fresco by Pietro Perugino.

During the ceremony, each father was given a candle representing the Christian light that “illuminates our path.”

“I wish you to continue with joy during the year that has just begun and for all of your life, certain that the Lord will always accompany your steps.”