10 Days Since Pope Leo XIV’s Appointment

It’s been 10 days since Pope Leo XIV became the new Bishop of Rome, following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday (April 21).

Early Public Appearances

Since then, the 69-year-old pope has led his first Mass — speaking in English — and made his social media debut. His inaugural Mass at the Vatican is scheduled for this Sunday (May 18).

Official Portrait Sparks Questions

Before that major event, the Vatican released Pope Leo’s official papal portrait. Public reaction was swift. Viewers quickly noticed one particular detail and took to social media to share their thoughts.

The image shows the Chicago-born pope wearing white papal robes and a gold cross while softly smiling into the camera. In the bottom right corner appears his Coat of Arms with the Latin phrase: “In illo uno unum” — meaning “In the One, we are one.”

The Mystery of “P.P.”

Next to the Coat of Arms is a handwritten sign-off: “Leo P.P. XIV.”
This prompted online curiosity.

One Reddit user asked, “What does the ‘P.P.’ mean?”
Another replied, “I’ve wondered for years. I think it stands for Pastor Pastorum — Shepherd of Shepherds. That sounds more accurate than other suggestions like Papa et Pontifex.”

Others agreed. One user confirmed, “You’re right. It’s Pastor Pastorum.” Another added, “Latin for Shepherd of Shepherds.”

Bold Statements on Marriage and Life

Earlier today (May 16), Pope Leo XIV made headlines with strong remarks about marriage and abortion. According to AP News, he declared that a true family rests on the “stable union between a man and a woman,” clearly excluding non-heteronormative relationships.

He emphasized that governments should build peaceful societies by supporting such families.
“No one is exempt from ensuring respect for every person’s dignity,” he added, “from the unborn to the elderly, from the sick to the unemployed, citizens and immigrants alike.”