Pope Leo XIV Steps into History: The First U.S. Born Pontiff Takes the Helm
Newly Elected Pope Leo XIV Set to Journey to Seoul in 2027
The Catholic world watched with bated breath as the newly elected Pope, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States, addressed the faithfuls from the central loggia of Saint Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, on May 8. [EPA/YONHAP]
Hailing from the land of the free and the brave, Cardinal Prevost has made history by becoming the first pope from the United States in the annals of the Catholic Church. Embracing his new identity, he elected to be called Pope Leo XIV, a nod to his American roots and the long lineage of popes.
Born and raised in the bustling city of Chicago, Pope Leo XIV spent a substantial portion of his career as a missionary in Peru. Apart from his work as a missionary, he is also the head of the Vatican's Congregation for Bishops, an esteemed position that successfully prepared him for his role as the shepherd of the global Church.
As the first American pope, Leo XIV carries the weight of expectations on his shoulders. With his distinguished career and fervent dedication to his faith, he is poised to lead the Catholic Church through an exciting new era. The journey ahead is unlikely to be an easy one, but with open arms and a firm conviction, Pope Leo XIV is ready to embrace the challenges that come his way.
Sources:
- JoongAng Ilbo, "Robert Prevost, first pope from U.S. in history of the Catholic Church, takes the name Leo XIV," transl. and ed. by website staff (date unknown)
- The Catholic News Agency, "US Cardinal Robert Prevost elected Pope Leo XIV," by Simone Orendain (May 8, 2023)
- The New York Times, "Cardinal Robert Prevost of United States elected Pope Leo XIV," by Elizabeth Alderman (May 8, 2023)
International travel brought the newly elected Pope, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, to the Vatican City, where he addressed the faithfuls from the central loggia of Saint Peter's Basilica. As a renowned Catholic leader, Pope Leo XIV has already captured the attention of major entertainment sources, including the JoongAng Ilbo and The New York Times. Amidst the excitement surrounding his election, celebrities and global audiences are anticipating the potential impact of the first U.S. born pope on international travel and the Church's future. The Vatican's Hop on Hop off tour operators are reportedly preparing for an influx of visitors seeking a glimpse of Pope Leo XIV.
