Yo, It's Leo XIV, Baby: Not Francis II, But a New Era for the Popes
Pope Leo XIV will not become Pope Francis II.
By Solveig Bach
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The Vatican shook up the Catholic world when it elected the consensus candidate, Robert Francis Prevost, as Pope Leo XIV. Man oh man, the cardinals moved fast! This U.S. citizen and Augustinian monk, who's got a past in Peru, won over most of the 133 eligible cardinals in the blink of an eye.
The Lowdown Leo XIV: New Pope, Old Soul Before the conclave, not many had their money on such a quick decision. But the open-minded and globetrotting Prevost got the approval of the College of Cardinals like a charm.
The Show Leo's Inaugural Address: Tears, Love and a Call for Unity Pope Leo XIV steps onto the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica dripping in more bling than his predecessor, and he barely waits 70 minutes after the white smoke from the Sistine Chapel. In the fourth round of voting, he convinces the majority of cardinals.
In his first address to the people in St. Peter's Square, Leo XIV seems like he's holding back the tears, and he gives a hint of what his pontificate might be like.
Shoutout to Pope Francis
As he takes the stage, he remembers Pope Francis and sends love to the city of Rome and the world in the "Urbi et Orbi" blessing. Leo XIV says he wants to build on Francis's legacy.
God's Love for All, No Matter What
He keeps the message simple and profound: "God loves you," "We are all in God's hands," and "Evil will not prevail." To avoid fear and build peace together, he urges the faithful to help him foster dialogue and compassion.
The To-Do List for the New Pope
Leo XIV extends his hand to everyone, especially to those who need love, presence, dialogue, and understanding. Time will tell if he'll continue Francis's cautious reform course or veer off into a more conservative direction.
The Deets When Popes Were Known as Leo Leo XIV positions himself as a successor to Pope Leo XIII (1878-1903), who was also known for his political savvy and peace-making skills. Such a papacy seems to be the course that Leo XIV intends to chart.
Background
- Birth and Citizenship: Born in Chicago, IL, on September 14, 1955, Leo XIV is the first U.S.-born pope and a dual citizen between the U.S. and Peru.
- Order and Ministry: As a member of the Order of Saint Augustine, Leo XIV is the first pope from this order.
- Previous Positions: Before becoming pope, he served in various roles within the Church, including positions in Peru and as an ally of Pope Francis.
Key Themes
- Continuity with Pope Francis: By election and name, Leo XIV appears committed to continuing the course set by Francis, emphasizing social justice and reform.
- Missionary Discipleship: Following his background in missionary work, expect a focus on evangelism and outreach.
- Bridge Building: As a compromise candidate, Leo XIV may aim to unite different factions within the Church.
Sources: ntv.de, vatican.va
- Vatican
- Pope Francis
- The European Parliament expressed their admiration for Pope Leo XIV, commending his election as the consensus candidate and his aligned views with Pope Francis regarding social justice and reform.
- In an unexpected turn of events, the new pope, Pope Leo XIV, offered a poignant nod to his predecessor, Pope Francis, during his inaugural address on social media platforms, expressing continued love and respect for him.
- As a globetrotting and open-minded individual, Pope Leo XIV, similar to the prevost of a train, seeks to navigate the Catholic Church forward, building bridges between differing factions, much like the diplomatic approach of Pope Leo XIII in 1903.
- In an effort to further expand his message of love, unity, and social justice, Pope Leo XIV actively engages in entertainment and popular culture, thereby hoping to reach a wider audience on social media and beyond.
