The surge in blessings reflects enthusiasm over the start of a new pontificate and highlights a traditional practice that combines devotion with fundraising for charitable works.

While riding in the Popemobile ahead of his weekly General Audience at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV receives a surprise box from a hometown pizzeria.

Today, almost three months since the election of Pope Leo XIV, the media reality defies those expectations. Apart from Catholic outlets such as the National Catholic Register, which have naturally covered him with the intensity and enthusiasm demanded by their mission and audience, Leo has appeared about as rarely in the news as a new pope can.