A Global Shift: Pope Leo XIV Becomes the First American to Lead the Catholic Church

From the streets of Chicago to the altars of Peru, Robert Francis Prevost’s historic election signals a papacy rooted in compassion, connection, and reform

Lightning-Fast Conclave Yields a Historic Outcome

The world watched with anticipation as white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel on the evening of May 8, 2025 — a traditional symbol of consensus among the cardinals. Minutes later, the announcement “Habemus Papam” rang out from the Vatican balcony, introducing Pope Leo XIV to a crowd of thousands in St. Peter’s Square.

Dressed in ceremonial red, the new pontiff offered a blessing and spoke of unity, peace, and service. His message echoed Pope Francis’s inclusive tone: “We must be a Church that welcomes all and builds bridges.”

A Life Shaped by Service Abroad

Although born in the U.S., Pope Leo XIV has spent much of his life immersed in Latin American communities. Prevost became a key figure in global ecclesiastical affairs after serving as Archbishop of Chiclayo in Peru and leading the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops. He took Peruvian citizenship in 2015, reflecting his deep spiritual and cultural bonds to the region.

In his first public address, the new pope delivered remarks in Italian and Spanish, bypassing English entirely. He praised the Peruvian people as “faithful companions on my pastoral journey,” emphasizing his commitment to a Church that transcends borders and champions inclusion.

Why the Name Leo XIV?

Pope Leo XIV’s choice of name nods to Pope Leo XIII, who led the Church from 1878 to 1903 and is remembered for his advocacy of workers’ rights and Catholic social teaching. Scholars suggest that this symbolic gesture bridges doctrinal divides, appealing to both traditional and progressive wings of the Church.

“Leo XIII was a reformer and intellectual,” said Dr. Kevin Ahern, a professor at Manhattan University. “By choosing the name Leo, the new pope sends a message of moral clarity and forward-thinking grounded in history.”

Reactions from Leaders and the Public

Political and civic leaders were quick to celebrate the announcement. Former President Donald Trump issued a statement calling Prevost’s election “a great honor for the United States.” At the same time, New York Mayor Eric Adams praised the new pontiff’s global background, saying, “This is a win for inclusive leadership, not just for America but for Catholics worldwide.”

Still, some commentators pointed out that Pope Leo XIV does not neatly align with American political figures. His prior critiques of U.S. immigration policy and focus on Latin American pastoral priorities may challenge expectations about the role of an American pope.

What Lies Ahead for the Vatican — and New York?

Pope Leo XIV will be formally installed in a public ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica in the coming weeks. He will also take possession of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, his official seat as the Bishop of Rome.

Closer to home, many are watching to see who will succeed Cardinal Timothy Dolan as Archbishop of New York. Dolan submitted his resignation earlier this year upon reaching the mandatory retirement age. The new pope’s choice could reveal whether his papacy will strengthen or recalibrate the influence of the American Church.

Another key signal will come from his first international trip. Pope Francis famously began his papal travels with a visit to Lampedusa, drawing attention to migrant suffering. Many speculate that Leo XIV may opt for a similarly symbolic gesture.

A Papacy Poised for Impact

At just 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV enters the papacy with the energy and experience for long-term leadership. His background,  a blend of American birth, Latin American ministry, and Vatican diplomacy, sets the stage for a pontificate defined by outreach, reform, and inclusion.

As Catholics around the globe celebrate this unprecedented moment, the Midtown Times joins in acknowledging a historic transition—one that could reshape the spiritual and geopolitical landscape of the 21st-century Church.