Thousands watch as Benedict's reign begins

Pope Benedict XVI officially launched his stewardship of the Roman Catholic Church today, presiding over a installation Mass that drew tens of thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries to St Peter’s Square.

Wearing golden vestments and clutching his pastoral staff, Benedict began the ceremony with a procession into the area under St Peter’s Basilica where St Peter is believed to be buried, paying homage to the first pope and blessing the tomb with incense as a choir chanted.