Their Excellencies Sir Rodney Williams, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda, and Sandra, Lady Williams joined dignitaries from around the world in Vatican City for the official inauguration of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.
The inauguration ceremony took place under radiant skies in Saint Peter’s Square, where thousands of guests gathered for the majestic Solemn Mass. In a display of reverent grandeur, the Pope celebrated the Mass facing the altar with the assembled diplomatic delegations positioned behind him. At one poignant moment, thunder rolled through the sky, marking the occasion amidst the warmth and brightness of a summer day in Rome.
The Antiguan and Barbudan delegation was among the first, following those of Nepal, the United States and Argentina, to be presented to His Holiness. Their Excellencies Sir Rodney and Lady Williams were warmly received by Pope Leo XIV, to whom they presented a symbolic gift on behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda. The gift was accompanied by official compliments extended from the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda.
Their Excellencies commended Pope Leo XIV on his compassion and commitment to the poor and vulnerable, values that resonate deeply with the people of Antigua and Barbuda and mirror the pastoral focus of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Accompanying Their Excellencies were His Excellency Sir David Shoul, Antigua and Barbuda’s Non-Resident Ambassador to the Holy See; Joan Lady Shoul; and Mr. Brent Scotland, Political and Counselor Officer at Antigua and Barbuda’s High Commission to the United Kingdom.
Their Excellencies expressed their profound appreciation for the invitation to witness such a momentous occasion in the life of the Catholic Church and extended warm congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on behalf of the people and Government of Antigua and Barbuda.
Pictured in St. Peter’s Basilica following the celebration are (left to right): Mr. Brent Scotland; Joan Lady Shoul; His Excellency Sir David Shoul; Her Excellency Sandra Lady Williams; and His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams.