President Michael D. Higgins to attend Inauguration Mass of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV
Date: Sun 18th May, 2025 | 00:01
Uachtarán na hÉireann, President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina have travelled to Rome where they are this morning attending the Inauguration of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.
The Mass of Inauguration, which officially begins the Pontificate of Pope Leo, will take place in St Peter’s Square at 10am Rome time.
It is expected that President Higgins and Sabina will have an opportunity to greet Pope Leo following the Mass.
In a statement following the announcement of Pope Leo’s election, President Higgins said:
“May I, as President of Ireland, extend my warmest congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on his election as successor to Pope Francis.
This is an immensely significant moment for all those of faith and goodwill around the world who look to the Papacy for spiritual guidance, moral clarity, and global leadership at a time described by his predecessor Pope Francis as needing the vocation of diplomacy.
Pope Leo XIV assumes this important role at a time of great challenges for the world.
I extend Pope Leo my very best wishes as he begins his Pontificate, and I welcome his statement that he is prepared to lead with compassion, wisdom, and an enduring commitment to the values of peace, justice, and human dignity. In his words so far, he has given priority for the need for building the mind and practice of peace.
Ireland enjoys a long-standing and deeply rooted connection with the Holy See. It is founded on shared values of interdependence, and the responsibility that goes with it. We in Ireland very much look forward to maintaining and deepening that relationship with Pope Leo, as we continue to share and work together on the project of fostering dialogue and understanding between peoples and nations.
It is my sincere hope that under Pope Leo’s leadership, the Holy See will continue to play a central role in promoting global solidarity, addressing the pressing issues of poverty, inequality, conflict, and climate change — challenges that transcend borders and demand collective action from the international community.
On behalf of the people of Ireland, I wish Pope Leo every success and strength for his Pontificate.”
This afternoon, the President and Sabina will visit St Isidore’s College in Rome, where they will meet with members of the Irish Religious Community. The Franciscan Community are this year celebrating the 400th anniversary of the College, which was founded by Irish Franciscan Luke Wadding in 1625.