The First American Pope Takes the World Stage
Pope Leo XIV first Mass was held Friday, just one day after he made history as the first North American to lead the Catholic Church. Born Robert Prevost in Chicago, Leo’s election marks a shift in tradition, overcoming the long-held taboo against a U.S.-born pope.
The 69-year-old Augustinian missionary wore the traditional red mozzetta, unlike Pope Francis, symbolizing a partial return to papal formality. Yet, by naming himself “Leo,” a reference to a close companion of St. Francis of Assisi, the new pope also signaled continuity with his predecessor’s values.
A Missionary Heart and Global Roots
Pope Leo XIV is not just American; he also holds Peruvian citizenship and spent over two decades as a missionary and bishop in Peru. There, he became known as a humble servant of the poor, especially during crises such as floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking fluent Italian and Spanish — but notably not English — Leo delivered his first public remarks with a call to unity, openness, and compassion.
“We must be a missionary church… open to receive everybody that needs our charity, our presence, dialogue, and love,” he said.
Shaped by Pope Francis and Social Justice
Francis had long viewed Prevost as a potential successor. In 2023, he appointed him to lead the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the Vatican’s most powerful departments. That same year, Prevost praised reforms that included laywomen in key decision-making roles.
His leadership aligns with Francis’ priorities, including outreach to the marginalized and bridging divisions in a polarized church.
A Message to the Divided U.S. Church
Leo XIV’s election comes amid deep divisions within American Catholicism. Many see his papacy as a chance to showcase a different kind of U.S. Catholic leadership — less politicized, more pastoral.
“He’s not going to be real far left and he’s not going to be real far right,” said his brother, John Prevost. “Kind of right down the middle.”
From the Streets of Peru to St. Peter’s Basilica
Leo’s legacy in Peru includes buying oxygen plants during the pandemic and personally delivering aid in rural areas. Locals dubbed him “The Saint of the North.”
As the first Augustinian pope, Leo continues a tradition of service, simplicity, and scholarship. Vatican historians noted the significance of his papal name, referencing Pope Leo XIII, known for defending workers’ rights and embracing modern social thought.
What Comes Next for Pope Leo XIV
Pope Leo is scheduled to:
- Celebrate Mass with cardinals in the Sistine Chapel
- Give his first Sunday noon blessing from the loggia
- Hold a media audience on Monday
- Possibly travel to Turkey at the end of May to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea
Observers around the world are watching closely to see how Leo will balance Francis’ progressive legacy with his own call for dialogue and unity.
Source: AP News
