On May 9, 2025, the Catholic Church welcomed a new leader as Pope Leo XIV was elected in the Sistine Chapel, marking a historic moment as the first American to hold the papacy. Following the twelve-year tenure of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known as Pope Francis, the conclave convened on May 7 and swiftly reached a decision after just 24 hours of deliberation.
The announcement of Leo XIV's election was met with jubilation in St. Peter's Square, where over 15,000 people gathered, erupting in cheers as white smoke signaled the decision of the 133 cardinals. The new Pope, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, is set to bring a unique perspective to the Vatican, having spent more than two decades as a missionary and bishop in Peru.
In his first address from the Mittelloggia of St. Peter's Basilica, Leo XIV expressed gratitude to the cardinals, stating, "You have called me to bear the cross." He emphasized the importance of carrying forward the Catholic faith and acknowledged his deep-rooted connection to his former diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, where he served as bishop. His first major Mass was also celebrated in English, further highlighting his American heritage.
The Vatican has released a detailed schedule for Pope Leo XIV's initial days in office, which includes a meeting with the cardinals on Saturday, a Regina Coeli prayer on Sunday at noon, and a media briefing on Monday. Significant events will follow, including a mass on May 18 and the possession of the Basilica of St. Paul on May 20. Notably, the Pope has decided to remain in his current residence at the Palazzo del Sant’Uffizio for the time being, awaiting renovations at the Apostolic Palace.
As Leo XIV begins his papacy, he has opted to keep the leadership of the Vatican unchanged, allowing current officials to remain in their positions temporarily. This decision reflects his desire for reflection and dialogue before making any final appointments. In a world that often feels divided, Leo XIV's focus on peace and understanding is particularly poignant.
Professor Bruce Morrill from Vanderbilt University pointed out that the Pope's choice to speak in Italian first during his address, rather than English, signifies his commitment to being the Bishop of Rome above all else. This choice, alongside his fluency in German, suggests a leader poised to engage with diverse audiences.
Leo XIV's personal life has also garnered attention. He is known to have a fondness for tennis, a sport he described as a passion, even if he considers himself a "pretty amateur" player. His love for physical activity and the outdoors may bring a refreshing dynamic to the papacy, reminiscent of Pope John Paul II's active lifestyle. Additionally, he enjoys long walks, which may pose a challenge in the confines of Vatican City.
Food is another significant aspect of Leo XIV's identity. His culinary preferences reflect his time in Peru, where he developed a love for traditional dishes such as goat meat, duck with rice, and ceviche—a dish made with raw fish that embodies the flavors of South America. His connection to Peru runs deep, not just through food but also through the relationships he forged during his years as a missionary.
His brother, John Prevost, shared a touching anecdote about Leo's childhood aspirations. He recalled how Leo would play "priest" as a child, taking their mother's ironing board, draping it with a tablecloth, and inviting the family to mass. This playful yet earnest desire to serve the Church has now culminated in his election as Pope, a role he has long aspired to.
Responses to Leo XIV's election have poured in from global leaders. Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg congratulated him and emphasized the importance of continuing the strong relationship between Luxembourg and the Holy See. Similarly, U.S. Vice President JD Vance expressed his support, stating that millions of American Catholics would be praying for the new Pope's success.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also reached out, conveying hopes for ongoing support from the Vatican amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. His message highlighted the significance of the Church's moral stance on international issues, particularly in light of the war in Ukraine.
Even Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin extended his congratulations, expressing optimism for constructive dialogue between Russia and the Vatican based on shared Christian values. However, Leo XIV's social media presence has not gone unnoticed, as he has previously reposted criticisms directed at U.S. political figures, including Donald Trump and JD Vance, suggesting a nuanced approach to political discourse.
As Pope Leo XIV embarks on his papacy, he carries with him the hopes and expectations of millions around the world. His commitment to the marginalized and his focus on dialogue and understanding may resonate well in today's complex global landscape. The upcoming weeks will be critical as he establishes his leadership style and priorities within the Catholic Church.
With the first public blessing scheduled for Sunday, May 11, from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, the world will be watching closely to see how Leo XIV navigates the challenges ahead. His journey from a young boy dreaming of priesthood to the head of the Catholic Church reflects a remarkable path, one that many hope will inspire renewed faith and unity among believers.
