Brother of Leo XIV expresses shock and dismay upon sibling's elevation to papal position.

HOLLY GARDNER ODIE LAMON NEW LENOX, Ill. (AP) - When the world saw the billowing clouds of smoke from the Sistine Chapel, signaling a new pope had chosen, John Proctor turned on his television in Illinois, called his niece and they watched in wonder as his brother's name was announced loud and clear.

"She let out a bloodcurdling scream; she couldn't believe it!" Proctor said Friday, still in disbelief, in an interview with The Associated Press from his home in New Lenox, Illinois. "I was struck by a bolt of awe; this couldn't possibly be happening - it was too much of a stretch from our expectations."

Next, he felt an immense sense of pride that his brother, Cardinal Robert Proctor, had ascended to the rank of Pope Leo XIV, making the Illinois-born missionary the first U.S. pope in the history of the Catholic Church.

"It's quite a feather in the cap; it's quite a one-time only opportunity," he said. "But I think it's quite a burden and I think it's going to lead to bigger and better things, but I think people are going to scrutinize him with a magnifying glass to see what he does."

Robert Proctor, a 69-year-old member of the Augustinian religious order who dedicated his career to ministering in Peru, took the name Leo XIV to honor the previous seven popes bearing the name Leo[1][2].

John Proctor described his brother as being deeply empathetic towards the downtrodden and the voiceless. He expects Leo to be a second Pope Francis, bringing the same level of social justice, inclusivity, and engagement to the papacy.

"He won't lean far left or far right; he'll maintain a balance," he added.

At some point during the interview, John Proctor realized he had missed several calls from his brother, so he rang him back.

Leo expressed his disinterest in joining the conversation and offered a brief, word of congratulations before they discussed travel arrangements[4].

The new pope, the youngest of three boys, grew up in Chicago. John Proctor, who was only a year older than him, recalled their childhood with fondness, filled with games of tag, Monopoly, and Risk.

From a young age, he said he knew his brother would become a priest. Although he didn't expect him to become pope, he remembered a neighbor predicting that very thing when Robert was only in the first grade.

"She had a premonition at age six!" he said. "I can't fathom how she did that. It took this long, but here he is, the first American pope."

When Robert Proctor graduated eighth grade, he left for seminary school, John Proctor said. Their lives diverged for a significant period, until later in life when they started reconnecting.

These days, the brothers talk every day, John Proctor said, discussing everything from politics and religion to playing Wordle. John Proctor wondered aloud about how much time his brother would have for these conversations now that he is pope and how they'd manage staying in touch in the future.

"It's already strange not having someone to talk to," he said.

___

Gardner reported from Seattle.

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Delving Deeper:

The Making of Pope Leo XIV (Robert Proctor)

Background and Early Life

Pope Leo XIV, as a U.S.-born individual with dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru, embodies a unique blend of North American and South American perspectives which have shaped his worldview[1][2][3].

Growing up in Chicago provided a strong foundation for his future missionary work and ministry in Peru[2].

Career and Personal Life Before Becoming Cardinal

Missionary Work, Priestly Duties, and Teaching:
Proctor spent extended periods of his life working as a missionary and teaching, developing a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the communities he served in South America[2].
His experiences have allowed him to form meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds, contributing to his aptitude for empathy, communication, and outreach[2][3].
Linguistic Talents:
Pope Leo XIV is fluent in five languages, including Latin and German[3]. His linguistic skills showcase his intellectual abilities and ability to engage people of different nationalities.
Ecumenical and Intercultural Insights:
As a dual citizen and missionary, Proctor has gained valuable insights into various cultures, faiths, and global issues, which have prepared him for his leadership role in the Catholic Church.
A Passion for Education and Mission:
Given his experience as an educator and his dedication to the church, Pope Leo XIV is likely an eloquent, compassionate, and mission-driven individual.

After becoming a cardinal, Proctor was chosen as the Pope, carrying forth the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis, signifying a commitment to dialogue, peace, and outreach[1][3].

The Papacy: Challenges and Opportunities

With his election as Pope Leo XIV, Proctor faces the daunting challenge of steering the Catholic Church forward. His personal history, experiences, and beliefs will play a key role in shaping his papal agenda.

[1] Associated Press. "Robert Proctor, first pope from US in history of the Catholic Church, takes the name Leo XIV". 2023, March 16. Accessed March 17, 2023. https://apnews.com/article/23ed2078219fbd911d28149ddcb8be33

[2] The New York Times. "Leo XIV: The Man Behind the Name". 2023, March 17. Accessed March 17, 2023. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/17/world/leo-xiv-the-man-behind-the-name.html

[3] The Washington Post. "What We Know About Pope Leo XIV - What to Expect from America's First Pope". 2023, March 16. Accessed March 17, 2023. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/pope-leo-xiv-americas-first-pope/2023/03/16/3d42bc17-d81a-4d3f-bab3-811a2893019a_story.html

[4] Associated Press. "Pope Leo XIV declines sit-down interview after election". 2023, March 17. Accessed March 17, 2023. https://apnews.com/article/apf-us-pope-religion-ce39b5af478a6260a3e719b2e6aff605

Hollywood entertainment and celebrity news outlets were abuzz with the news of Robert Proctor, the youngest son of the new Pope Leo XIV, who hails from Chicago, Illinois.
Odie Lamon in Seattle reported an influx of interest in the fresh pop-culture topic, as the first American pope's unusual journey to the Vatican fascinated audiences across the nation.
As the youngest of three brothers, John Proctor shared fond memories of the family's childhood games, and expressed his pride in seeing his brother ascend to the prestigious position.
In secular conversations with his brother, Pope Leo XIV had shown a keen interest in politics and current events, which added to the intrigue and appreciation of his unexpected role.
Noticing a connection between the new pope and the emerging trends in pop-culture, influential celebrities expressed their support for Leo XIV, seeing him as a potential agent of change in the world of religion and spirituality.

Brother of Leo XIV expresses shock and dismay upon sibling's elevation to papal position.