The Vatican has published the first official photo of Pope Leo XIV, sending a message of hope and unity in difficult times

Pope Leo XIV, Robert Francis Prevost, was pictured in his first official photo wearing the white papal robes and a reliquary cross with bone fragments of Augustinian saints. The image, released by the Vatican, symbolizes the start of his pontificate and will be used on special occasions. The new pope, the first American pope in the history of the Catholic Church, aims to deliver a message of hope and continuity in the faith. His first encyclical, scheduled for June, will address important themes such as peace and the Church's involvement in social issues.