Pope Leo formally inaugurates Vatican officials on May 18 and temporarily confirms their current positions

Pope Leo has officially confirmed Vatican officials in their current positions, with a formal inauguration scheduled for May 18 in St. Peter’s Square.

The Vatican announced on Friday that Pope Leo XIV has temporarily confirmed all senior officials in their current roles. 

The decision provides the newly elected pontiff with the opportunity to evaluate and contemplate before finalizing any permanent appointments to important roles.

Officials in the Vatican, appointed for five-year terms, typically serve at the pope’s discretion. A new pope typically maintains the current officials at first, before deciding on any alterations in leadership or direction later on.

The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Leo XIV’s formal inauguration Mass is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, in St. Peter’s Square, signifying the official commencement of his papacy. 

The newly elected pope, selected on Thursday, is set to conduct his first general audience on May 21.