A new chapter begins for the Catholic Church, as Pope Leo XIV — the first American pontiff — delivers his first mass inside the Sistine Chapel. His election surprised many, but his global experience and spiritual background are drawing early praise.

Pope Leo XIV gave a homily at a Mass a day after he was chosen to lead the Catholic Church. Here's what the new pontiff said, and what he's up to in the coming days.

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass as pontiff in the Sistine Chapel on Friday, delivering a passionate speech that stressed the importance of spreading God’s word in a world that sometimes “mocks” faith.