Across the world, millions tuned in to watch a ceremonial gathering steeped in centuries of tradition. From elaborate vestments to ancient chants echoing through hallowed halls, every element of the solemn event seemed in line with historical precedent—until one subtle but unmistakable detail captured the attention of modern viewers and set the internet ablaze.
What began as a moment of reverence quickly turned into a frenzy of screenshots, speculation, and surprise commentary as eagle-eyed observers zeroed in on a jarring contradiction hidden in plain sight.
And once you see it, it’s hard to unsee.
A New Era of Leadership Begins
On May 8, a new figure officially stepped into one of the most powerful and symbolic roles on Earth. Born in Chicago, the newly inaugurated spiritual leader adopted the name Pope Leo XIV, marking a fresh chapter for the global Catholic Church.
In his first few weeks, the pontiff’s words have echoed far beyond Vatican walls. He called for a permanent and just peace in Ukraine, an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and greater humanitarian aid to conflict zones. He also praised peace efforts between India and Pakistan, signaling a diplomatic and justice-oriented approach to his leadership.
But while his public addresses have set a tone of compassion and progress, it was a far more subtle detail that became the headline story after one of his early Masses—specifically, something that hadn’t been worn by a pope in any prior generation.
The Image That Sparked a Viral Storm
It happened during a routine broadcast of a Holy Mass presided over by the new pope. Draped in ceremonial robes and standing amid the splendor of sacred tradition, everything seemed appropriately majestic—until viewers noticed something unexpected peeking out from beneath the sleeve of his white cassock.
It wasn’t a cross. It wasn’t a ring. It was… a smartwatch.
More specifically, a device that bore all the hallmarks of a high-end, modern piece of tech known for tracking steps, heart rate, and texts.
Social media exploded within hours.
“Him wearing that thing gets me every time,” one viewer posted on X.
Another user added: “The Pontiff wearing a fitness watch is honestly surreal.”
One more chimed in: “The Apple Watch is so funny. Like bro, you’re literally the pope.”
What had begun as a reverent celebration of tradition had now become an internet sensation—and not because of doctrine or diplomacy, but because of wearable tech.
Pope Leo is seemingly a big fan of Apple Watches (Mondadori Portfolio/Getty)
An Unlikely Tech Trendsetter
Photos taken during the Mass showed the 69-year-old spiritual leader moving through traditional rituals, blessing the crowd, and delivering his homily. But what captivated online communities wasn’t what he said—it was what was strapped to his left wrist.
When enhanced and zoomed, multiple images clearly show the distinctive square face of what appears to be an Apple Watch peeking out from beneath his sleeve. The device was even seen subtly lighting up at one point, indicating it was active.
Speculation immediately began.
Was it tracking his heart rate during the liturgy? Was he reading notifications? Was this simply a preferred timepiece he’d used long before his election as pontiff?
None of these questions had clear answers. But that didn’t stop the discussion from exploding across tech and religious forums alike.
A History of Modern Touches
While it may seem shocking to some, this isn’t the first time a religious figure has embraced modern technology. In fact, several recent papacies have taken steps to modernize the Church’s communication strategies, using social media, live-streaming Masses, and even developing apps to spread spiritual resources.
But this moment hit differently. It wasn’t a planned digital campaign or a strategic update to Vatican tech infrastructure—it was personal.
The choice to wear the smartwatch during a globally televised Mass, beneath the centuries-old ceremonial robes of the papacy, symbolized a merging of two worlds: one ancient and symbolic, the other immediate and technological.
Many viewers described it as jarring—but also kind of amazing.
“This is the duality of modern faith,” one Reddit user posted. “A man preaching timeless values while checking his pulse on a wrist computer.”
The Debate: Sacred or Silly?
Naturally, the reactions weren’t all positive. Some critics voiced concern that wearing a smartwatch during Mass undermined the dignity of the ritual.
“Isn’t that a bit disrespectful?” one traditionalist asked in a Facebook comment thread. “Mass isn’t the time for step tracking.”
Others dismissed the criticism entirely. “He’s a human being,” wrote another user. “Maybe he has a health condition. Maybe it helps him stay centered. Or maybe he just likes being on time.”
Several observers noted that the device could have been on silent or set to “Do Not Disturb,” making it no different from a traditional wristwatch in terms of etiquette.
But regardless of opinion, everyone agreed on one thing: the image was unforgettable.
The Watch in Question
While there was no official confirmation from the Vatican about the specific model, tech enthusiasts quickly began dissecting the photos. The general consensus? It was likely an Apple Watch Series 8 or later—potentially the Ultra variant, based on its case size and the slight metallic reflection on the band.
That led to even more speculation. Did the pope prefer the ECG feature? The fall detection setting? Was he checking the prayer app or getting weather alerts for upcoming outdoor Masses?
While these questions may seem silly, they also humanized the figure in ways few symbolic leaders are ever humanized.
“He’s a 69-year-old man wearing a smartwatch,” one user posted. “That’s kind of awesome.”
Not His First Time
Interestingly, this isn’t the first sighting of the new pope wearing the modern accessory. A Reddit user unearthed an old photo—taken before his elevation to cardinal—showing him blessing a parishioner with the same type of watch visible on his wrist.
That discovery only deepened the sense that this wasn’t a stunt or a new look for publicity. Rather, it appears to be a genuine, personal choice—a practical and consistent element of his daily life that just so happens to now exist beneath the robes of the Catholic Church’s highest office.
9to5Mac, a popular tech news site, even shared the viral moment, writing: “Newly elected Pope Leo XIV is making buzz in the tech and watch communities after being seen wearing an Apple Watch during his first official Mass.”
Popes and Personal Style
While the Church maintains strict protocol for official vestments during Mass, popes have always had subtle ways of expressing personal style—from choice of footwear to liturgical preferences.
Pope John Paul II was known for his hiking boots. Pope Benedict XVI briefly revived the red papal slippers. Pope Francis famously preferred more modest attire and often wore old shoes as a gesture of humility.
So perhaps it’s not entirely out of step that a modern pope might continue wearing a familiar device—one that connects him to his pre-papal life and serves a practical function in the day-to-day life of a spiritual leader.
What It Means in a Broader Context
The viral moment, strange as it seems, speaks to something much bigger than one watch or one Mass. It reflects the ongoing tension—and potential harmony—between ancient tradition and modern life.
In a world grappling with rapid technological change, institutional faiths must find ways to stay relevant without losing their roots. A smartwatch under a cassock may seem trivial, but to many, it symbolized a potential bridge.
“Faith doesn’t have to reject technology,” said one theologian in an interview. “It just has to use it wisely. If wearing a smartwatch helps a religious leader stay connected, healthy, and balanced, then that’s a meaningful integration—not a contradiction.”
Others noted the practical value in showing that even the most revered leaders can still engage with the tools of daily life.
Final Thoughts: A Moment That Captures the Zeitgeist
The image of Pope Leo XIV, standing at the altar in full regalia, with a sleek smartwatch peeking out from beneath his sleeve, has been described as everything from hilarious to profound. It’s been memed, analyzed, and debated—but it’s also reminded people that even the highest traditions are carried out by real humans.
Humans with habits. Humans with preferences. And yes, sometimes, humans with fitness goals.
In a way, this small moment in the early days of a new papacy may be remembered long after policies and speeches fade. Because in an age of artifice and curation, this was something real.
And whether you found it jarring, funny, or strangely comforting—it was something we could all relate to.
