Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed his attendance at the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, scheduled for Sunday, May 18, at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. This marks Albanese's first international engagement since his re-election on May 3.
Albanese, a practicing Catholic, expressed that participating in the papal inauguration is both a personal and professional honor. Reflecting on the occasion coinciding with Mother’s Day, he remarked that his late mother would have been proud of his role in representing Australia at such a significant event.
Prior to his visit to the Vatican, Albanese will travel to Jakarta to meet with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. Following this, he will proceed to Rome to attend the inauguration ceremony. During his time in Vatican City, Albanese plans to engage in discussions with various world leaders, including Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, focusing on topics such as trade relations and international cooperation.
In addition to attending the inauguration, Albanese has extended an invitation to Pope Leo XIV to visit Australia for the International Eucharistic Congress in Sydney, set to take place in 2028. This invitation underscores Australia's commitment to fostering strong ties with the Holy See and highlights the nation's role in global Catholic events.
Representing the Australian Catholic Church at the inauguration will be Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, and Vice President Bishop Greg Bennet.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, is the first U.S.-born pontiff and was elected following the death of Pope Francis. Known for his missionary work in Peru and his tenure as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, Pope Leo XIV is recognized for his commitment to social justice and inclusivity within the Church.
The inauguration ceremony is expected to draw a significant number of global dignitaries and faithful, symbolizing a moment of unity and renewal for the Catholic Church worldwide.