Pope Francis installed

Pope Francis during his inauguration Mass

Pope Francis officially inaugurated his papacy by a Solemn Mass in the sun-drenched yet chilly square of St Peter's, surrounded by close to a million people. During the Mass he received the pallium and the ring of the fisherman, symbolic of his supremacy as Supreme Pontiff. Yet, what distinguished him during this celebration is his simplicity and keeping away from the pomp and ceremonials that are connected with such a high position. He still wore his black shoes, rode on a jeep instead of the bullet-proof Popemobile, and mingled with the people, kissing babies and blessing even the handicapped attending the Mass.

The Vatican unveiled the new coat-of-arms of Pope Francis, which are basically the same that he used as Archbishop of Buenos Aires. The shield has a bright blue background, at the center top of which is a yellow radiant sun with the IHS christogram on it representing Jesus (it is also the Jesuit logo). The IHS monogram, as well as a cross that pierces the H, are in red with three black nails directly under them. Under that, to the left, is a star representing Mary, Mother of Christ and the Church. To the right of the star is a nard flower representing Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church. With these symbols the Pope demonstrates his love for the Holy Family.  What distinguishes his coat of arms as pontiff is that, instead of the wide-brimmed, red cardinal's hat atop the shield, it is now crowned by the papal tiara and crossed keys.
His motto—“Miserando Atque Eligendo” (because he saw him through the eyes of mercy and chose him)—is taken from the Venerable Bede's homily on the Gospel account of the call of Matthew. It holds special meaning for the Pope because—when he was only 17-years-old, after going to confession on the Feast of St. Matthew in 1953—he perceived God's mercy in his life and felt the call to the priesthood, following the example of St. Ignatius of Loyola.