Vatican City, May 18, 2025 — In a deeply moving moment that drew applause and tears from the gathered faithful, newly elected Pope Leo XIV was visibly emotional as he received the Fisherman’s Ring during his formal inauguration. The sacred ring, made of gold and engraved with the image of St. Peter casting his net, along with the new pontiff’s name and papal seal, symbolizes the Pope’s authority as the successor of St. Peter.
The ring was placed on Pope Leo XIV’s finger by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, one of the most influential figures in the College of Cardinals and a fellow Filipino, marking a historic occasion for the Catholic Church. The gesture symbolized the transfer of apostolic authority and the start of Pope Leo XIV’s pastoral mission.
As Cardinal Tagle slid the ring onto his finger, the 68-year-old pontiff, formerly known as Cardinal José Emmanuel Cruz of the Philippines, was seen wiping away tears. The crowd at St. Peter’s Square, which included thousands of pilgrims from around the world, erupted in applause. Many Filipino Catholics, both in the Vatican and back home, expressed pride and joy at witnessing such a historic and emotional moment.
The Fisherman’s Ring, traditionally destroyed after a pope’s death to prevent forgery of official documents, serves as one of the most important symbols of papal office. Its placement during the inaugural mass is a powerful sign of unity and continuity within the Church.
Pope Leo XIV, known for his humility and dedication to social justice, addressed the faithful shortly after the ceremony. “This ring is not a crown of gold but a bond of service,” he said. “May I always be a shepherd who listens, and a fisherman who casts the net of mercy and hope.”
Social media was abuzz with images and videos of the touching moment. The hashtag #PopeLeoXIV trended globally as Catholics celebrated the official start of a new papacy marked by inclusivity, compassion, and renewed hope.
Pope Leo XIV gets emotional as he receives the Fisherman's Ring, a special gold ring bearing the image of St. Peter and the Pope's name and seal. Cardinal Tagle put the ring on him. #popeleoxiv #inaugurationMass #vatican #catholicchurch pic.twitter.com/dub6auBzmS
— EWTN News (@EWTNews) May 18, 2025
The ceremony concluded with a papal blessing and a procession through St. Peter’s Square, as Pope Leo XIV greeted the crowd with a smile still marked by emotion. The new pope’s journey has officially begun—with a ring, a prayer, and tears of gratitude.