Vatican City: In an unexpected gesture, Pope Leo XIV paid a surprise visit Tuesday morning to the Dicastery for Bishops — the very institution where he served as Prefect from January 2023 until his election as Pope earlier this month. Upon arrival at the Dicastery's headquarters in Piazza Pio XII around 10 a.m., the Holy Father proceeded to celebrate Mass in its chapel, a solemn moment reflecting his continued spiritual connection to the office.

Traveling discreetly in the same dark minivan previously seen during his outings beyond Vatican walls, Pope Leo’s appearance delighted onlookers. Crowds gathered near St. Peter’s Square and along Via dei Corridori eagerly greeted him with cheers of “Viva il Papa!” The Pope’s car was later seen exiting the garage after about ninety minutes, marking his third surprise public engagement since his ascension.

The Dicastery for Bishops oversees critical responsibilities related to the creation and governance of particular Churches within the Latin Church, as well as matters concerning the episcopal office, while coordinating with the Dicastery for Evangelization.

Later in the day, Pope Leo XIV plans to visit the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls to offer prayers at the tomb of St. Paul. Looking ahead, the Pope is set to conduct his inaugural General Audience with the faithful on Wednesday morning at the Vatican.