First American Pope: Beliefs & Insights
- Pope Leo XIV has commenced his papacy, marking a historic moment as the first American to lead the Catholic Church.
- Addressing the College of Cardinals,Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the weight of his new responsibilities.
- Father Thomas Reese, senior analyst with Religion News Service, noted that Prevost's extensive ministry in Latin America significantly influenced his selection as pope.
pope Leo XIV Makes History as First American Pope
Pope Leo XIV has commenced his papacy, marking a historic moment as the first American to lead the Catholic Church. The selection of Robert Prevost, 69, born in Chicago, broke with tradition, eliciting cheers from St.Peter’s Square.
Addressing the College of Cardinals,Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the weight of his new responsibilities. “You have called me to carry the cross and to be blessed,” he said.
Father Thomas Reese, senior analyst with Religion News Service, noted that Prevost’s extensive ministry in Latin America significantly influenced his selection as pope. His appointment in 2023 to oversee bishops worldwide further solidified his position within the Vatican.
The election of Pope Leo XIV, whose papacy is expected to focus on social concern, theological tradition and global justice, sparked reactions globally, with American Catholics expressing strong support. Jen Fulwiler, of Austin, Texas, said the selection reflects a desire for a global outlook. TJ Strazzeri, a New York resident, hailed the news, expressing hope for a long and impactful papacy.
As Pope Leo XIV begins his reign, his commitment to justice, peace, and environmental protection, combined with his pro-life stance, sets the stage for a papacy that blends tradition with contemporary social concerns.He previously voiced opposition to gender ideology in schools while serving as a bishop in Peru.
On friday, Pope Leo celebrated his first public Mass in the Sistine chapel. A media address is scheduled for Monday.
“Prevost was not the person we thought was going to be coming out on the balcony—so it was a big surprise,” Reese said.
“He will be totally in line with Pope Francis’s concern about justice, peace, and protecting the environment,” Reese said.
what’s next
Later this month, Pope Leo XIV may travel to Turkey for the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, a key event in early church history.