In a notable development from the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV has authorized Cardinal Raymond L. Burke to celebrate the traditional Latin Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica next month.

America Magazine reported that the Mass will take place on October 25 during the annual Ad Petri Sedem pilgrimage, marking a significant change in policy from previous years when such liturgies were restricted under Pope Francis.

The traditional Latin Mass, which follows the 1962 Roman Missal, will be held at the Altar of the Chair inside St. Peter's Basilica—one of the most iconic liturgical settings in the Catholic Church. This Mass is part of the “Summorum Pontificum” pilgrimage organized by traditionalist Catholics devoted to the older form of the rite.

This year’s decision is the first public indication of Pope Leo XIV’s approach to traditional liturgy, coming after several years of tight limitations imposed by his predecessor. In 2021, Pope Francis issued “Traditionis Custodes,” which placed new restrictions on the celebration of the old rite, often limiting the use of major churches like St. Peter's and discouraging high-profile celebrations.

Una Voce International, a federation that advocates for traditional liturgy, announced the authorization in a press release made public on September 8. The organization praised the Vatican’s decision and expressed appreciation for what it described as a “pastoral response.”

Approval Marks Departure From Recent Precedent

During the 2023 and 2024 pilgrimages, traditional Latin Masses were not allowed to be celebrated inside St. Peter’s Basilica. Pilgrims in those years had to attend liturgies in smaller churches nearby.

The change this year will allow one of the most prominent American cardinals associated with the traditional rite, Cardinal Burke, to lead the celebration inside what is considered the heart of the Catholic Church. This has been widely interpreted by observers as a shift in tone under Pope Leo XIV.

Cardinal Burke, known for his theological conservatism and criticism of aspects of Pope Francis’s pontificate, has not issued a public comment on the development. Similarly, the Vatican press office has not responded to inquiries regarding the decision to allow the Mass.

Federation Views This as a Turning Point

Joseph Shaw, president of Una Voce International, told Catholic News Service that he believes the decision will significantly increase interest and attendance at this year’s pilgrimage. Shaw said it reflects a level of support for Catholics who remain attached to the older form of the Roman rite.

In a written statement, Shaw expressed gratitude to Pope Leo, describing the decision as an encouraging sign of “unity with the Holy Father” for those devoted to the traditional Latin Mass, sometimes referred to as the Tridentine Mass. Shaw said the approval represents more than a liturgical allowance—it suggests openness at the highest levels of the Church.

The federation has described the moment as "the first concrete indication" of the new Pope’s stance toward the traditional liturgy since his election. Although no official statements have been made by Pope Leo himself on the matter, this move is being closely watched by traditionalist Catholics worldwide.

Growing Attendance Adds to the Occasion’s Significance

The Ad Petri Sedem pilgrimage, named after a Latin phrase meaning “to the seat of Peter,” draws Catholics from around the globe each October for liturgical celebrations and expressions of faith centered on the papacy and Church unity. Over the years, the number of participants has grown to nearly 1,000, according to organizers.

Until now, the absence of a high-profile traditional Mass at the Vatican had been a cause of disappointment for attendees. The return of a central liturgical event inside St. Peter’s is expected to energize traditionalist Catholic communities and possibly draw even greater numbers this year.

Pope Leo XIV began his papacy earlier this year, following the death of Pope Francis. Since his election, observers have been awaiting signs of how he would approach disputed and sensitive issues within the Church—including the use of the traditional Latin Mass, which some believe was at risk of marginalization under the previous pontificate.

Pilgrimage Reclaims Symbolic Footing

The choice of location—the Altar of the Chair—is particularly meaningful. This part of the basilica is closely associated with teaching authority in the Church and the primacy of the Pope, offering symbolic emphasis on the theme of unity expressed by the federation.

Though no schedule changes have been announced, the organizers hope the Mass will become a staple event of the annual pilgrimage. The traditional Latin Mass, while less common than its modern counterpart, continues to be a focal point for a subset of Catholics who value its reverence, language, and continuity with Church tradition.

As the October event approaches, both Vatican-watchers and pilgrims are expected to look for any further indications of how Pope Leo XIV may address the often-contentious issue of liturgical tradition. His decision is being interpreted as a gesture of reconciliation between different communities within the Church.