Finally, the new pope appears on the balcony and greets the crowd in St. Peter’s Square – a tradition full of symbolism. I am a scholar who studies Roman Catholic theology and history.

Pope Francis stands at the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican on March 13, 2013, just after being announced as pontiff. AP Photo/Andrew Medichini Daniel Speed Thompson ...

The Gospel of Matthew inspired an enduring Christian symbol: Jesus passing the keys to Peter. Cardinals are now choosing who will hold the keys — and their power — next.

Inverted crosses visible as Pope Francis lay in state symbolise Saint Peter, the first pontiff, and are not a reference to satanism. Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman ...

On Sunday morning, May 18, a Mass for the beginning of the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV will take place in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. Although the Mass is no longer described as an ...

How Francis Changed the Symbols of a Pope’s Funeral. April 21, 2025. Listen to this article · 3:23 min Learn more. ... The new rules also allow for popes to be buried outside St. Peter’s, ...

Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT. عربي ...

A new pope’s first appearance on St. Peter’s balcony is rich with symbols − and Francis’ decision to rein in the pomp spoke volumes. By Daniel Speed Thompson, University of Dayton May 6, 2025 ...