Inauguration of Pope Benedict XVI

VATICAN STATEMENT: "The Church in Rome and in various parts of the world, is invited to give filial thanks and make a fervent supplication to God to obtain for the new Roman Pontiff, who will be given the Petrine pallium and the Ring of the Fisherman, copious graces for his ministry for the good of the entire Church."

THE ROMAN CATHOLIC church enters into a new era today with the inauguration of His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, the new spiritual leader of a 2,000 year old faith. The mass for the solemn Inauguration of the Pontificate of Benedict XVI will be celebrated at 4pm (Malaysian time) this evening in St Peter's Square.

The open air Mass is expected to draw 500,000 pilgrims. Before celebrating the rite, during which cardinals will embrace the Pope and exchange the "Kiss of Peace", Benedict will visit the tomb of St Peter. During the ceremony, he will receive the Fisherman's Ring and the pallium - a narrow stole of white wool embroidered with six crosses.

After the mass, he will be driven around in a special vehicle - the Vatican announced it will be a different vehicle from the "popemobile" John Paul II used.

Benedict XVI

Let's join the religious and secular leaders in our country and the rest of the world, in celebrating the inauguration of His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, a brilliant theologian, a humble servant of the Lord, a holy man who has promised to pursue peace, justice, and promote the value of life.

Viva il Papa!

Tune in to CNN or BBC to witness this historic moment.

Books, Essays & Articles by Pope Benedict XVI