The solemn weight of a centuries-old tradition stirred visible emotion during a key moment of the papal inauguration.
n May 18, Pope Leo XIV formally received the Fisherman’s Ring during his Mass of Inauguration at St. Peter’s Square, marking the start of his Petrine Ministry. The symbolic gesture, performed by Cardinal Tagle, not only fulfilled a longstanding tradition but also deeply moved the newly elected pope while captivating viewers around the world.
Captured in a video posted to social media, the moment showed the pontiff seemingly holding back tears while accepting the centuries-old symbol of his new mission from Cardinal Tagle, one of the cardinals who could’ve been elected for the position.
Many viewers were touched by the depth of the pope’s response. One person remarked, “How beautiful to see the real emotions.” Another shared, “He is holding back tears as I am, too. He feels the weight of the position God has given him.”
On TikTok, more heartfelt messages followed. One viewer posted, “Why did I cry? I think he’ll be the best pope☝️😇,” while another noted, “The way he looks at the ring😥He just melts my heart.”
The jewelry’s presentation was not merely ceremonial. The Ring of the Fisherman, also called the Piscatory Ring, symbolizes the authority and mission handed down from St. Peter, the first pope.
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oted in New Testament passages like Matthew 16:19 and Luke 22:32, the ring is a visible marker of the pope’s duty to shepherd the Church and strengthen the faithful.
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Historically, the ring was used as a signet to seal papal documents until 1842. Although it now serves a symbolic purpose, each pope receives a unique ring that is later destroyed after death to prevent forgery. This ensures the ring remains a personal and singular emblem of each pontificate.
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Pope Leo XIV’s new ring continues this long-standing tradition. It features an image of St. Peter with the keys and the net. By accepting the ring, the 266th successor of Peter steps into a spiritual lineage stretching over two millennia.
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The EWTN Vatican highlighted the historic sequence of this moment by posting a video collage showing the last three popes receiving their rings.
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This isn’t the first time the new pope has impressed viewers globally. As previously reported, on Thursday, May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Prevost appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as Pope Leo XIV. In his first speech, he spoke about peace, unity, and continuing the work of Pope Francis. His words reached far beyond the crowd gathered below.
He began with the greeting, “Peace be with all of you,” emphasizing its universal significance. Describing it as a “disarming peace” grounded in humility and perseverance, he expressed hope that it would reach individuals and families worldwide.
Referencing Pope Francis, he said, “The Pope who blessed Rome, gave his blessing to the world, to the entire world, that Easter morning. Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail!”
He encouraged the faithful to move forward without fear, united in faith, and described Christ as a light the world continues to seek. The pope urged believers to help build bridges through dialogue and shared action, noting the Church’s role in serving those in need.
Leo XIV also acknowledged his fellow cardinals for their trust, thanked his former diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, and cited Saint Augustine, “With you I am a Christian and for you I am a bishop.” He expressed hope for a Church that is missionary, open, and close to those who suffer.
He concluded by marking the day of the Supplication to Our Lady of Pompeii, inviting the faithful to join him in prayer for peace and guidance as he begins his mission.
The address prompted swift responses online. One viewer wrote, “Goosebumps.” Another commented, “His words brought actual chills… peace and unity are exactly what our world needs right now. I have hope in this new chapter for the Church.”
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Some viewers saw broader implications in the pope’s message. One, referring to U.S. President Donald Trump, remarked, “And sent a message to Trump ! 🙏🏼💙✝️” Another echoed this sentiment, “He’s talking to you Donnie!”
Others responded with humor. One joked about how long it might take for Trump to try to “fire” the pope, referencing the U.S. president’s well-known pattern of dismissing people.
A separate comment drew a contrast between the pope’s call to “build bridges” and Trump’s past message about building walls, suggesting a sharp difference in values. Another expressed concern that the speech sounded more progressive than expected and hoped the pope would uphold traditional Church teachings.
Some highlighted the pope’s American background. One pointed out that although he was born in the U.S, he now serves the global Church. Some people weren’t pleased that the pontiff didn’t mention his home country in his speech, like a netizen who remarked, “It would have been nice if he remembered the United States.”
The significance of this moment also drew a response from Trump. In a message shared on the official White House X page, he congratulated Pope Leo XIV and described his election as a proud moment for the country. He also said he looked forward to meeting him, calling it a meaningful occasion.
