Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff in history, has signaled that his papacy will closely follow the path set by his predecessor, Pope Francis. In a message to the College of Cardinals, he urged them to embrace the “precious legacy” of Francis, emphasizing continuity in the Church’s mission of compassion, dialogue, and reform.
Celebrating his inaugural Mass on May 9, 2025, in the Sistine Chapel less than 24 hours after his election, Pope Leo XIV-born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago-called on the Catholic Church to be a “beacon illuminating the dark nights of this world.” Fluent in Italian and Spanish, he reflected on his two decades of missionary work in Peru and expressed his commitment to serving the 1.4 billion-member global Church with humility and faithfulness.
By choosing the name Leo, the new pope evokes a tradition of social teaching dating back to Pope Leo XIII, who championed workers’ rights and human dignity in the late 19th century. This choice signals Leo XIV’s dedication to the Church’s social doctrine and its response to modern challenges.
Among the foremost issues Pope Leo XIV identified is the impact of artificial intelligence on working people and human dignity. He called for the Church to engage thoughtfully with technological advances, ensuring that innovation serves the common good without compromising fundamental human values.
At 69 years old, Leo XIV dons the traditional red papal vestments, marking a return to some customary symbols after Pope Francis’s more unconventional style. His election followed a swift two-day conclave, where his dual American and Peruvian citizenship, missionary background, and leadership of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops positioned him as a unifying figure capable of bridging diverse cultures and perspectives.
International leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, have congratulated the new pope, highlighting the historic significance of an American ascending to the papacy. Meanwhile, Christian leaders worldwide have expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV will continue fostering peace, unity, and dialogue across global communities.
Looking ahead, Pope Leo XIV is expected to maintain the reformist spirit of Pope Francis while addressing pressing issues such as Church governance, social justice, and interfaith relations. Invitations to significant international events, including the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea in Turkey, underscore his emerging role on the world stage.
As the first Augustinian pope and only the second pontiff from the Americas after Francis, Leo XIV’s papacy begins with a clear vision: to shepherd the Church through the complexities of the 21st century while honoring the enduring legacy of his predecessor.
