The New Kid on the Throne: Pope Leo XIV and Global Reactions
Responses to the Appointment of the Novel Pontiff - Respondences to Elected Pontiff
The Vatican has its new head, and the world is buzzing. The 69-year-old Robert Francis Prevost, hailing from the United States, has climbed to the top, taking the name Leo XIV, following a quick 24-hour conclave in the famed Sistine Chapel. The reactions pour in from everywhere.
Here's what they're saying:
US Corner:
- Donald Trump: "A new era for the Catholic Church–an American now at the helm! I'm sure millions of us will pray for his success."
- JD Vance: "Let's hope he navigates the Vatican's complex waters with grace and wisdom."
European Overview:
- Frank-Walter Steinmeier: "Let Leo's wisdom Inspire you to guide the Church with love and courage, as Leo the Great and Leo XIII did."
- Friedrich Merz: "His election gives millions hope for guidance in these tumultuous times."
- Johann Wadephul: "In these testing times for Christianity, may the Pope lead us to connection and reconciliation."
Global Perspective:
- Vladimir Putin: "Pope Leo, let's maintain dialogue and unity through shared Christian values."
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy: "We ask for the Vatican's continued support in our journey towards justice and peace."
- Israeli Leadership: "May we find unity, peace, and hope under Pope Leo's leadership."
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen: "May he inspire and guide with wisdom and strength, promoting peace and dialogue worldwide."
- Spanish Royal House: "His message of peace resonates deeply with all Spaniards."
- Polish President Andrzej Duda: "A warm welcome to the new Pope, reflecting the hopes and prayers of the Polish nation."
- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer: "The first American Pope is a momentous occasion indeed."
- Argentine Presidential Office: "Pope Leo's leadership shines as a beacon of hope and unity in an ever-changing world."
Inside Scoop:
The German Bishops' Conference chairman, Georg Bätzing, believes the cardinals sought to maintain continuity with Pope Francis, yet refrained from creating a replica. Irme Stetter-Karp, president of the Central Committee of German Catholics, described Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as a moderate, diplomatic, and well-informed figure familiar with the German Catholic Church.
With Leo XIV ascending to the throne, the Catholic Church navigates the uncharted waters of this historic era, with global leaders keeping an eager eye on events unfolding in the Vatican.
- Pope
- Robert Francis Prevost
- Leo XIV
- Conclave
- Germany
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- Russia
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- USA
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- Donald Trump
- JD Vance
- Europe
- Frank-Walter Steinmeier
- Friedrich Merz
- Johann Wadephul
- Poland
- Ukraine
- Vladimir Putin
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy
- Spain
- Argentina
- European Commission
- Israeli Prime Minister
- Keir Starmer
- Felipe VI
- Diplomacy
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- Ursula von der Leyen
- Cardinal Fernando Natalio Chomalí Garib
- The world is eagerly watching as the new Pope, Robert Francis Prevost, also known as Leo XIV, begins his tenure, following a conclave in the Sistine Chapel.
- Despite being hailing from the United States, Leo XIV aims to maintain continuity with his predecessor, Pope Francis, as suggested by German Bishops' Conference chairman Georg Bätzing.
- In Europe, leaders such as Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Friedrich Merz express hope that Leo XIV will guide the Church with wisdom in these tumultuous times.
- Across the globe, figures like Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy are reaching out to Pope Leo for support and dialogue, highlighting the global significance of his role.
