Thousands Gather for Pope Leo’s Inaugural Angelus Prayer
Castel Gandolfo, Italy: On Sunday, a large crowd gathered in a quaint hilltop village near Rome to witness Pope Leo’s inaugural Angelus prayer from his summer residence at Castel Gandolfo.
“I am delighted to be here with you… and I appreciate your warm reception,” the Pope stated, positioned outside the Apostolic Palace gates, accompanied by two Swiss Guards in ceremonial attire.
Having arrived on July 6, Leo is enjoying a two-week retreat at Castel Gandolfo, located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Rome, reestablishing it as a summer papal residence.
In contrast, his predecessor, Pope Francis, opted to remain at the Vatican during the summer months.
Despite the rainy conditions, thousands filled the village streets, which overlook a lake, eager to catch a glimpse of the new pope as he recited the Angelus prayer for the first time, a tradition typically observed by popes every Sunday.
The pope led a mass at the Church of Saint Thomas of Villanova before making his way across the square to the enthusiastic cheers of the crowd.
“Let us remember to pray for peace and for all those who are suffering and in need due to war,” he urged.
