The Historic Election of Pope Leo XIV: America's First Pope
On May 8, 2025, the Catholic Church saw history in the making as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago became Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American to hold the papacy in the history of the Church in its 2,000-year existence. This sudden but historic choice has elicited far-reaching reactions around the world, both testifying to the importance of the event and mirroring the varied views that it represents.
From Chicago to the Vatican: The Life of Pope Leo XIV
Robert Francis Prevost was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois. His background is diverse, with French, Italian, Haitian, and Louisiana Creole. He was born and raised in the suburb of Dolton and was active in his local parish, serving as an altar boy and church choir member. His educational efforts culminated in the achievement of a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics at Villanova University and a Master of Divinity at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Continuing his studies in theology, he achieved a Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome. His vast missionary activities in Peru, where he also became a naturalized Peruvian citizen, earned him the nickname "Latin Yankee" in the city of Rome.
The Conclave and Election
The papal conclave met after the passing of Pope Francis, culminating in Cardinal Prevost's election after four ballots in 24 hours. His election broke long-standing taboos against an American pope, largely due to fear of the United States' influence worldwide. Yet, Prevost's broad international experience and social justice advocacy made him a unifying figure among the College of Cardinals.
Significance of the Name "Leo XIV"
On being elected, Prevost adopted the name Leo XIV as a tribute to Pope Leo XIII, who was known for his support for workers' rights and social justice. This indicates Pope Leo XIV's commitment to maintaining the agenda of inclusivity, peace, and reaching out to the oppressed, as set by his progressive predecessor Pope Francis.
Global Reactions
United States
The selection of an American pope drew a combination of surprise and pride throughout the country. In Chicago, the hometown of Pope Leo XIV, there were celebrations, with local residents and leaders rejoicing at the historic occasion. Former President Donald Trump sent congratulations to the new pope, describing it as a "great honor for our Country" and looking forward to meeting him.
International Community
Global leaders also sent congratulations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hoped for further moral and spiritual support from the Vatican in Ukraine's struggle to restore justice and find lasting peace. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hoped that the Pope's pontificate would help to consolidate dialogue and the defense of human rights in a world that needs hope and unity.
A Vision for the Future
In his inaugural balcony address from the St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo XIV highlighted peaceful, unifying, and open themes, conveying his message both in Italian and Spanish. Pope Leo XIV spoke of thanks being owed to deceased Pope Francis while appealing for a Church that can embrace everyone through social justice and outreach to excluded communities.
His election is viewed as a continuation of Pope Francis's legacy, with hopes that he will tackle issues of today like internal divisions of the Church, the continuing abuse scandal, and church attendance decline in the West. His background indicates a possible ability to get beyond ideological factions and inspire a vision of unity and compassion among the Church and the world.
Looking Ahead
Pope Leo XIV's first principal public event occurs on May 9, 2025, with a festive celebration of Mass with the cardinals in the Sistine Chapel. His inaugural Angelus is to be presented on May 11 from the Apostolic Palace window of the Vatican.
While the world looks on, Pope Leo XIV begins a papacy with the potential to bridge continents, cultures, and communities, to create a new chapter in the life of the Catholic Church.
