Longshot Pope Prevost Steps Up as Leo XIV
Elected as Pope Leo XIV is Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost.
Things have taken a surprising turn in the Vatican as Cardinal Robert Prevost, a previous underdog, has been chosen as the new Pope, baptized as Leo XIV. After an afternoon of voting in the conclave on the second day, white smoke rose from the Vatican chimney, signaling the election of Prevost.
The crowd in St Peter's Square erupted in applause, as Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago native, stepped out to deliver his first address: "Peace be with you all," he greeted the throng of over 100,000 faithful, his gaze studious, yet comforting.
In tribute to his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, Leo XIV recollected the firm voice of his benevolent predecessor, acknowledging the profound impact he left on the Vatican.
Born in 1955, Leo XIV studied theology at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago and was ordained as a priest in 1982. He spent over a decade as a missionary in South America, particularly in Peru, eventually becoming a citizen. After returning to the U.S., he headed the Augustinian Province of Chicago and served as prior general of the Augustinian order for twelve years [1][4][5].
A moderate and pastoral figure, Leo XIV aligns with many of the positions held by Pope Francis, but with differences. His stance on the LGBTQ+ community, for instance, has been controversial compared to that of his predecessor. In 2012, he was critical of media promoting beliefs and practices that deviate from the gospel, including the "homosexual lifestyle." This contrasts sharply with Pope Francis' inclusive approach to the LGBTQ+ community.
However, like Pope Francis, Leo XIV is deeply concerned about the climate crisis, often emphasizing the importance of action to address global issues [1][5]. The church, he believes, must move from words to action, and reckon with the detrimental consequences of unchecked technological advancement.
While considered a centrist and progressive on social issues, Leo XIII is regarded as a staunch traditionalist regarding church doctrine. He opposes the ordination of women as deacons and has consistently been vocal against abortion, calling it a heinous act.
These divergent viewpoints give insight into the unique balance that Leo XIV brings to the papacy, melding modern social sensitivities with unwavering adherence to traditional Catholic teaching.
Notes
- [1] Biography.com
- [4] Catholic News Agency
- [5] National Catholic Reporter
Topics:
- Pope Leo XIV
- Conclave
- Vatican
- Social Issues
- Church Doctrine
- Climate Crisis
- Technological Advancement
- Abortion
- LGBTQ+ Community
- Regardless of his stance on certain social issues, such as the LGBTQ+ community, the new Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, shares Pope Francis' concern for the climate crisis.
- Pope Leo XIV's many roles throughout his career, including his time as a citizen in South America and his leadership as prior general of the Augustinian order, are clear indicators of his vast experiences.
- In the age of social media, Papal preferences are no exception, and it's interesting to note that Pope Leo XIV has been vocal about media promoting beliefs that deviate from the gospel, including the "homosexual lifestyle," a clear departure from his late predecessor, Pope Francis.
