Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration mass took place on Sunday, May 18, 2025, marking a profound moment in the history of the Catholic Church. The event, which resonated far beyond the walls of the Vatican, was witnessed by many global dignitaries, including veteran businessman and humanitarian Kamel Ghribi. Reflecting on the ceremony, Ghribi described it as “a sacred moment etched into the heart of history… one of those days that will remain in our hearts.”

The atmosphere at St. Peter’s Square was both reverent and hopeful, a striking contrast to the sombre mood that accompanied the funeral of the late Pope Francis some weeks ago. For Ghribi and other dignitaries in attendance, the inauguration marked a continuation of the Catholic Church’s leadership and the beginning of a deeply meaningful chapter for the world.

“Every Pope is unique and unrepeatable, and I am sure that this will also be true of Leo XIV,” Mr Ghribi noted. He further observed that the new Pope has shown humility, strength, culture and enthusiasm.

Called to Lead through Service and Moral Clarity

From the outset of the inauguration ceremony, Pope Leo XIV struck a deeply human tone. His words were unembellished, sincere, and powerful. “I have been chosen without any merit,” he said, “and with fear and trembling I come to you as a brother who wants to be a servant of your faith and your joy.”

Pope Leo XIV spoke on the need to build a new world where peace reigns, a timely message at a time of increasing global tension. He concluded his message with a simple yet profound reminder that resonated with people across faiths: “Let us walk towards God and love one another.”

Reflections on the Pope’s Unifying Message

To Ghribi, this message wasn’t mere rhetoric. Instead, it was a meaningful signal of the Pope’s intent to lead through service and moral clarity. As someone who has spent years nurturing cross-border partnerships and interfaith dialogues across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the Pope’s message of unity resonated deeply with Mr Ghribi. He believes Pope Leo XIV has emerged as a deeply unifying figure not only for the Catholic Church but for the global community.

“His Holiness speaks not only to Catholics, but to anyone committed to peace and dignity. His voice reaches across cultures, ideologies, and borders. As someone who works at the intersection of diplomacy, healthcare, and humanitarian action, I see in Pope Leo XIV the rare kind of leader who doesn’t just respond to the times, but shapes them,” Ghribi said.

A Time to Connect and Network

Kamel Ghribi also used the occasion to connect with some friends and acquaintances, a networking effort aimed at reinforcing his long-standing commitment to promoting global cooperation for the common good. Beyond the spiritual significance of the day, Ghribi engaged in purposeful conversations that centered on some of the causes he is most passionate about, particularly expanding access to healthcare and advancing interfaith dialogue. Among the notable dignitaries he interacted with were the President of Armenia Vahagn Khachaturyan, the Colombian President, Gustavo Petro, Austria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, EU President, Ursula von der Leyen, Prince Alberto II of Monaco, and US Vice President J.D. Vance, among others.

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