The election of a new Pope is always a moment of deep emotion for Catholics around the world.
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In addition to marking a new spiritual and pastoral phase for the Church, it is also a historic event that attracts the attention of the faithful, authorities and curious on all continents. In 2025, we will witness the ascension of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff in history, elected after a brief but intense conclave.
In this article, you will learn a little more about the new Pope, discover the date and time of his first mass as Supreme Pontiff and find out exactly how and where to watch this historic moment live. We will also bring you information about the next major celebration that will be broadcast the following Sunday.
Who is Pope Leo XIV?
Born Robert Francis Prevost, the new Pope adopted the name Leo XIV in reference to Leo XIII, one of the most notable Popes in the modern history of the Church.
Before his election, Prevost was prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and is known for his solid theological training, missionary experience and dialoguing stance with other religions.
The choice of a North American Pope signals a geographical and cultural opening of the Vatican, reinforcing the global character of the Church and the importance of the American continent in evangelization in the 21st century.
When and where will Pope Leo XIV's first mass take place?
The first mass will be celebrated:
- ✨ Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
- ⏰ Time: 11am (Rome time) / 6am (Brasília time)
- ⛪ Location: Sistine Chapel, Vatican
- 📅 Access: Private ceremony with the cardinal electors, but with live global broadcast
Although the celebration is closed to the public, the Vatican will provide live broadcasts accessible to the entire world.
📣 Sunday Mass Broadcast Worldwide
In addition to the Friday Mass, Pope Leo XIV will celebrate a second public Mass:
- 📆 Date: Sunday, May 11, 2025
- 🕛 Time: 12:00 p.m. (Rome time) / 7:00 a.m. (Brasília time)
- 📍 Location: St. Peter's Square
This Sunday Mass will be open to the public and will be attended by thousands of faithful, and will be broadcast live around the world. It will also be the first opportunity for many to see the new Pope in a large outdoor celebration, with an apostolic blessing and a special message.
How to watch Pope Leo XIV's first mass live
There are several ways to follow this historic celebration in real time, free of charge and with translation into several languages:
🔴 YouTube (Vatican News Channel)
The Vatican's official YouTube channel broadcasts the Mass live with commentary in several languages, including Portuguese.
Access the Official Channel on Youtube
🌐 Official Vatican News Website
The Vatican's official platform provides live coverage and real-time information about Mass and other papal events.
- Link: vaticannews.va
📱 Catholic Apps
- Vatican News App (iOS and Android)
- EWTN App
- New Song, Life Network, TV Aparecida (Brazil)
📺 TV Channels
- New Song TV
- Life Network
- TV Aparecida
- EWTN (International)
- Vatican RAI (Italy)
Why is this mass so important?
The new Pope's first mass is a symbolic and spiritual act that marks:
- O official beginning of his pontificate;
- Your first apostolic blessing as Supreme Pontiff;
- One moment of hope for the Church and the world;
- THE presentation of his pastoral and spiritual vision.
🌐 Available languages for streaming:
- Portuguese
- Spanish
- Italian
- French
- English
- Polish
- Romanian
📝 FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
✅ Is Mass free to attend?
Yes. All official broadcasts are free.
✅ Do I need to download any apps?
Not necessarily. You can watch on YouTube or the official website, but apps offer a better experience and notifications.
✅ Will the broadcast be translated?
Yes. Most platforms offer simultaneous translation or subtitle options.
✅ Will it be available to watch later when recorded?
Yes. The recording is usually available on official Vatican channels.