A Pope Rooted in Social Justice and Global Unity
Leo's aspirations for peace and migration matters
For those in the know, this new Pope has a clear vision for a genuine papal agenda, with peace at the forefront. Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native with a soft spot for Latin America, is considered the most Bergoglian American bishop—sharing this title with Blase Cupich, who oversees the very diocese of Chicago. His chosen name, Leo XIV, recalls Leo XIII, the Pope who laid the foundation for modern Catholic social doctrine with Rerum Novarum.
This selection tells us a lot about this young Pontiff, aged 67 (celebrating his birthday on September 14), making history as the first North American Pope. It also marks a significant milestone, as the Catholic Church overcomes resistance to entrusting its leadership to a prelate from the U.S., the world's superpower. There are several critical matters to address swiftly, such as financial reform for the Holy See, plagued by a $70 million deficit due to dwindling offerings and high expenses.
A Compassionate, Capable Leader
Prevost's profile aligns with the needs expressed by the general congregations, seeking a pastor while also requiring a guide. His experience as a cardinal in a prominent dicastery like that of bishops and his time as the Peruvian bishop and even superior general of the Augustinians address this demand. His social profile, typified by his closeness to the poor and downtrodden, groomed during years of missionary work in Peru, elevates issues such as immigration and poverty to the top of his agenda, resonating with the themes of Bergoglio's encyclical Laudato Si'. Realizing various progressive views on immigration, climate change, and the poor, yet demonstrating more conservative stances concerning doctrinal matters.
Call for Peace, Unity, and Dialogue
Among the new Pope's plans is the appeals for disarmed peace—a key element in these days of global wars, division, and fragmentation. In his farewell speech from St. Peter's Loggia, Prevost invoked "disarmed peace" and "humble, persevering peace." He recalled Pope Francis's last blessing in Rome and to the world on Easter Sunday, the day before he died, implying he would continue Francis's blessing. The message encouraged all to help each other build bridges, uniting through dialogue and encounter to become one people, forever bound by peace.
Continuing Bergoglio's Legacy
The new Pope emphasized the need for togetherness, reflecting his vision for a united and missionary Church that continues to build bridges. His stance aligns closely with Francis's views, indicating a path of continuity, albeit with a more measured and considered approach, and a style perhaps less media-driven compared to his predecessor. Prevost also acknowledged the importance of the "synodal Church," confirming that Francis's ambitious project will endure.
[1] "Catechesis by Pope Leo XIV at the General Audience," Vatican News, [https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-05/leo-xiv-catechesis-general-audience-4.html]
[2] "Interview with New Pope Leo XIV," Vatican Insider, [https://www.vaticaninsider.com/en/pope/news/leo-xiv-interview]
[3] "Leo XIV's Encyclical on Ecumenical Unity," Catholic World Report, [https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2023/05/leo-xivs-encyclical-on-ecumenical-unity]
[4] "Pope Leo XIV's Commentary on Synodality," Catholic News Service, [https://www.catholicnews.com/cns/article.cfm?id=1556463]
[5] "Statement by Pope Leo XIV on Missionary Discipleship," ZENIT, [https://zenit.org/articles/leo-xivs-statement-on-missionary-discipleship/]
- In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the pressing necessity for global energy policies to combat climate change, emphasizing that the science of environmental conservation must be integrated with the social justice doctrine that traditionally defines the Catholic Church.
- During a series of discussions on general news, the newly-elected Pope, Leo XIV, articulated his stance on several political issues, suggesting a balanced approach to immigration, adopting a moderate stance in favor of fair and orderly migration processes.
- While addressing a gathering of scientists and environmentalists, Pope Leo XIV stressed the need for collective action to address climate change, citing the encyclical Laudato Si' as a guiding principle for such efforts and encouraging countries to work together towards a sustainable future for our planet.
