Pope Leo XIV's debut wardrobe was different than Francis'. Here's what changed. During his introduction to the world in 2013, Pope Francis wore all white, communicating his desire for "simplicity," Rev.
Bruce Morrill said. Upon his arrival to St. Peter's Basilica balcony on Thursday afternoon, May 8, the newly-elected Pope Leo XIV adorned a bright red shoulder cover and ornately-decorated stole, a contrast from the stark white attire the late Pope Francis wore while stepping out on the balcony more than a decade ago. While Pope Leo XIV's attire may have appeared lavish compared to Francis', the new pontiff actually took a more traditional approach, Rev.
Bruce Morrill, a theology professor at Vanderbilt University, told USA TODAY on May 8. For centuries, newly-elected popes have worn a white cassock (ankle-length clerical coat), white zucchetto (skull cap), red pellegrina (shoulder cover), red and golden stole, and a pectoral cross (large cross worn as a necklace), Morrill explained. Each piece of the ensemble holds an important meaning in the Catholic faith.
During his introduction in 2013, Pope Francis took a different route, forgoing much of the pomp and circumstance, to communicate an immediate desire for "simplicity," Morrill said. To many, Pope Francis' introductory attire was the first of many instances he would convey this message. Here's a better understanding of what Pope Leo XIV wore on Thursday.
Pope Leo XIV: History is made with Pope Leo XIV, first-ever pontiff from U.S.: Live updates What does the red shoulder cape represent? The pellegrina, or shoulder cape, is attached to the cassock and is not limited to popes. Cardinals, bishops and priests can also wear the piece of clothing, which is why new popes often wear a red one.
"The pope is the bishop of Rome and he's also a cardinal, a cardinal archbishop of Rome," Morrill said. In the Catholic faith, red is the color of blood, fire and martyrdom, according to Jerusalem's Terra Sancta Museum. What does the ornate red and gold stole represent?
The red and gold stole that Pope Leo XIV wore on May 8 features ornate illustrations of the four gospels in the New Testament − Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Morrill said. Take a look: Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis contrast introductory attire During his introduction to the world in 2013, the late Pope Francis wore all white, communicating a desire for simplicity. Pope Leo XIV swayed back to tradition during his introduction, bearing a red shoulder cape and red and gold stole.
Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.
