Pope Leo XIV: What His Election as the First Pope from the USA Means for the Catholic Church

Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago, USA, is now Pope Leo XIV. Despite not being among the favorites to succeed Pope Francis, many see him as a continuation of Francis’s legacy. Over the years, they were close collaborators with aligned views on many issues. Pope Leo envisions a church that seeks ‘peace and love’ and stays ‘close to human suffering.’ His first message emphasized ‘humble and persistent peace,’ echoing Pope Francis’s vision. Analysts believe Pope Leo will strive to balance the progressive and conservative factions within the Vatican. As a practical leader with a degree in mathematics, he aims to carefully calculate his actions to avoid problems. Pope Leo will immediately begin work by conducting a service on Friday morning (May 9, 2025). Colombian President Gustavo Petro welcomed the election of a pope with deep ties to Latin America, hoping Leo XIV will advocate for Latin American immigrants in the USA. Pope Prevost, originally from Chicago but having lived extensively in Peru, holds Peruvian citizenship and is seen as more than just an American figure.