Pope Leo’s debut: ‘Clear connections’ to Francis, but ‘he’s his own man’

Pope Leo XIV began his first Mass with a reverent recollection of his predecessor, invoking "Hallelujah" in a move that emphasized his seriousness and departure from the enthusiastic style of his predecessors. dressed formally in papal apartments, he contrasted with Pope Francis's more随意 approach to governance. While aligning with Francis on social justice and Vatican Council reforms, Leo also drew from his Augustinian roots, focusing on modesty, community, and inclusion, as evidenced by his choice of simple footwear during the Mass. His presentation blended continuity with progress, offering a unique vision of Catholic tradition and modernity that resonated with some within the Church.