POPE LEO XIV TO BE INAUGURATED ON MAY 18-VATICAN.

The Vatican has announced that Pope Leo XIV's inauguration will take place on May 18 with a Mass in St. Peter's Square at 10am (0800 GMT). 

Pope Leo XIV, previously known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was elected as the first US pontiff after four rounds of voting in the papal conclave to succeed Pope Francis who died on April 21.

Meanwhile, the new Pope has decided to retain his successor's top employees for the time being, allowing him to decide on key appointments. 

His first weekly general audience has been scheduled for May 21.

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