People spot Pope Leo’s reaction to fisherman’s ring being put on his finger in front of thousands of people

Pope Leo has been officially presented with his papal ring as his inauguration mass kicked off in the Vatican today and viewers were quick to point out his 'emotional' response to the moment.

Thousands of followers along with a high-profile guest list of 150 leaders from across the world have travelled to the Vatican today to witness the historic moment Pope Leo is formally inaugurated into his role as the head of the Catholic Church.

There have already been a whole host of stand out moments, including JD Vance getting pretty cosy with his wife, and Leo being spotted on the popemobile for the first time as he broke a major security protocol in the process.

The mass itself commenced at 9.00am, with the ceremony brimming with religious symbolism and traditions, one of which is the presenting of the papal ring, otherwise known as the fisherman's ring.

As the pontiff was presented with the jewellery, viewers watching at home reckon he started to become emotional during the 'moving' moment, as one pointed out: "Is it just me or Pope Leo XIV are in tears upon receiving the Papal Pallium and the Ring of the Fisherman on his inauguration?"

Another agreed: "That ring got the pope emotional."

A third echoed: "Fisherman's ring looks good on Pope Leo XIV"

Of course, the ring itself is not just for show, and it holds huge significance within the church.

So, what is the papal ring?

The Papal ring is a gold signet ring that generally features the image of the first pope, Saint Peter, and is given to the Catholic church leader at his papal inauguration.

The papal ring is worn on the right hand ring finger and is specially cast for each new pope.

(BBC)

What does the papal ring symbolise?

The ring has key roots in the teachings of the new testament, symbolising faith and duty as the pope is given his new papal powers.

It also represents the start of a new papacy and the end of another. When a pope passes away, his papal ring is destroyed by the camerlengo, a senior cardinal.

Vatican news explains: "In the Gospel of Matthew (16:19), St. Peter was given the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven, and in the Gospel of Luke 22:32, Jesus tells Peter he must strengthen his brothers in the faith and mission.

"The Ring of the Fisherman thus authenticates the faith and symbolises the duty with which the first Pope was entrusted."