The New Pope: Leo XIV Takes the Reins
Leo XIV will not succeed as Francis II.
By Solveig Bach
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The papal conclave, to everyone's surprise, swiftly chose Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. This American-Peruvian Augustinian monk, previously based in Peru, won the favor of 133 eligible cardinals. His inaugural address hints at the direction of his papacy.
Step 70 minutes after the smoke from the Sistine Chapel, the newly minted Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. His rapid ascent to the throne surprised many, but the open-minded Prevost found favor among the College of Cardinals.
A Heartfelt Address to the World
As Leo XIV addressed the masses in St. Peter's Square, tears welled in his eyes. In a sincere and emotional speech, the Pope outlined key points of his pontificate.
Honoring His Predecessor
Leo XIV paid homage to the predecessor, Pope Francis, evoking his memories of the former pope's final public appearance on Easter Sunday. He spoke of his voice, "always courageous, though weak," and his desire to build on Francis' blessing.
God's Love for All
Embracing simplicity, Pope Leo XIV reiterated that "God loves you" and that evil will not prevail. He encouraged the faithful to move forward "without fear, hand in hand with God and one another."
The Catholic Church, he said, must be a church that bridges gaps and fosters dialogue. He urged the faithful to join him in building bridges to promote unity and peace.
An Inclusive Pontificate
Though previously against female priests' ordination, the Pope acknowledged women and men, and emphasized the importance of missionary work throughout his life. His past missionary work in Peru further solidified his commitment to this cause.
A Possible Pope of Peace
Leo XIV extended his charity, presence, dialogue, and love to those in need. However, it remains to be seen if his campaign will follow the cautious reform path of Pope Francis or veer towards a more conservative stance.
Leo's Predecessors and the Legacy of Leo XIV
Leo XIV, like his predecessors bearing the name Leo, appears poised to carry on the peace efforts initiated by Pope Francis. According to Augsburg Church Historian Jörg Ernesti, Pope Leo XIII, Prevost's namesake, was a great statesman who mediated in eleven international conflicts during his pontificate.
"May the Easter greeting of the risen Christ penetrate the hearts of all, reach all people, all nations, and the whole earth," Pope Leo XIV concluded after his address. Only time will tell whether he will uphold this ideal.
Source: ntv.de
- Vatican
- Pope Francis
About Pope Leo XIV:
Pope Leo XIV, now in his 69th year, was elected on May 8, 2025. He is the United States' first-ever pope, breaking the tradition to become the first American and Peruvian pontiff. Born Robert Francis Prevost on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, he also holds Peruvian citizenship.
As the 267th pope, his election marked several milestones: he is the first pope born in the United States, the first American and Peruvian pontiff, and the first from the Order of Saint Augustine[1][2].
Prevost gained popularity as a compromise candidate, representing a moderate position favored by the College of Cardinals[2]. His election sets the stage for an interesting pontificate, with expectations resembling a continuation of Francis' social justice and reform legacy.
Previously, he held the position of Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops[2]. While specifics of his papal priorities remain to be seen, his election suggests a focus on social justice, education, and missionary work — themes Leo XIII emphasized through the Rerum Novarum.
- Despite the tradition, the European Parliament watched as Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, was elected as the United States' first pope in 2025, becoming the first American and Peruvian pontiff.
- In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV, who inherited the name of Pope Leo XIII, emphasized the importance of missionary work, a testament to his past experiences and the legacy of his namesake.
- Despite his previous stance against female priests' ordination, Pope Leo XIV included women in his vision for an inclusive pontificate, acknowledging their importance and the emphasis on missionary work throughout his life.
- Despite the initial surprise of his rapid ascent to the papacy, Pope Leo XIV extended an offer of peace, dialogue, and love to all, a stance that, while reminiscent of Pope Francis, may yet veer towards a more conservative direction.
