During his Inauguration Mass on May 18, Pope Leo XIV received the Fisherman’s Ring from Cardinal Tagle, marking the official start of his Petrine Ministry. The moment, steeped in centuries of Catholic tradition, moved the newly elected pope to tears and quickly resonated online. Social media users across platforms expressed admiration for his visible emotion, calling it a powerful sign of humility and spiritual responsibility.

The Ring of the Fisherman, or Piscatory Ring, symbolizes the pope’s succession from Saint Peter and his duty to shepherd the global Church. Though no longer used as a signet seal, each ring is unique to its pope and is destroyed upon his death. Pope Leo’s ring, featuring St. Peter with keys and net imagery, continues this tradition as a personal emblem of faith and leadership passed down through generations.

The new pope, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, first addressed the world from the Vatican balcony on May 8, delivering a message of peace, unity, and service. Quoting Pope Francis and Saint Augustine, he emphasized humility and the need for a missionary Church rooted in love. His speech, rich in symbolism and theological clarity, drew praise for its inclusive tone and hope-filled call for global reconciliation.

Online reactions to his first days as pope have been overwhelmingly engaged, with many highlighting the contrast between Pope Leo’s bridge-building message and the divisive rhetoric of political figures like Donald Trump. While some critics voiced concern about potential progressive shifts, others found renewed faith in the Church’s direction. As the first American pope, Leo XIV’s early steps have left a deep global impression — one guided by tradition, compassion, and bold purpose.