The Symbolism Behind Pope Leo XIV’s Ring of the Fisherman
During the Mass of Inauguration of his pontificate on May 18, Pope Leo XIV will receive the Ring of the Fisherman—a symbol of the Petrine Ministry with deep roots in the New Testament.
By Kielce Gussie
The Vatican’s Office for Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff recently unveiled an image of the new Ring of the Fisherman that will be bestowed upon Pope Leo XIV during his Mass of Inauguration.
Embedded with an image of St. Peter, this ring carries a profound significance derived from the New Testament. In Matthew 16:19, St. Peter was granted the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven, and in Luke 22:32, Jesus instructed Peter to strengthen his brothers in faith and mission.
Thus, the Ring of the Fisherman serves as a testament to the faith and represents the responsibility entrusted to the first Pope.
As Peter is often referred to as the fisherman Apostle, the ring is aptly named the Ring of the Fisherman or the Piscatory Ring, symbolizing the unbroken lineage from the inaugural Pope to the present day.
A Tradition Spanning Centuries
This iconic ring has been a part of papal symbols since at least the 13th century. Initially utilized as a signet ring for sealing official documents signed by the Pope, its practical use ceased in 1842. However, it continues to hold symbolic significance, with each Pope having a unique ring.
Upon the passing of a Pope, his Ring of the Fisherman, along with the Lead Seal, is marked with a chisel to ensure its authenticity and prevent forgery. Consequently, every ring is distinct and personalized for each Pontiff.
In 2013, Pope Francis was presented with a gold-plated silver ring, previously owned by the secretary to Pope Paul VI. Notably, Pope Benedict XVI had a gold ring engraved with a bas-relief of St. Peter fishing from a boat.
Now, as Pope Leo XIV assumes the mantle, he upholds the enduring tradition of the Ring of the Fisherman, featuring an image of St. Peter with the keys and the net—a symbolic passing of the torch as the 266th Successor to St. Peter officially embarks on the mission entrusted to St. Peter over two millennia ago.
