Vatican City — As the sun set over St. Peter’s Square, the air was filled with the fervent chants of thousands who had gathered to witness history. “Leone! Leone! Leone!” echoed through the square as Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, made his much-anticipated appearance.
The celebrations began shortly after white smoke signaled his election earlier in the day. Cardinals had convened for a conclave, and less than two days later, a new leader was chosen for the Catholic Church and its roughly 1.4 billion followers. Silence fell as the crowd waited for their new pope’s inaugural address, a moment both poignant and monumental.
“Peace be upon you,” Leo XIV greeted the assembly from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, embracing a message of unity that reverberated through the crowd. He echoed sentiments from his predecessor, Pope Francis, declaring, “God loves us, God loves everyone, and evil will not prevail.” Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni emphasized that the repeated calls for peace were reminiscent of the words spoken by Jesus after Easter, setting a hopeful tone for the new papacy.
Leo XIV’s election was noteworthy not only for its timing but also for its significance in the ongoing narrative of the Church, following the death of Francis just weeks earlier. Experts suggest he may navigate a middle path, continuing Francis’s emphasis on inclusivity while also respecting longstanding Vatican traditions.
The pope’s initial remarks highlighted his vision for a world built through dialogue and cooperation, calling on the faithful to aspire to “a disarmed peace and a disarming peace.” Audience members expressed enthusiasm; one onlooker, 29-year-old Kasper Mihalak from Denmark, captured the spirit of optimism surrounding Leo XIV. “I think the world really needs it,” he said, referencing the pope’s emphasis on peace.
Born in Chicago and having spent significant time in Peru, where he also became a bishop, Leo XIV’s background may resonate with diverse audiences. His experience in impoverished regions provides him a unique understanding that connects with the issues raised by his predecessor. Phil Pullella, a seasoned Vatican observer, noted this dual citizenship offers continuity with Francis, who advocated for the marginalized.
The choice of attire also spoke volumes about Leo XIV’s aspirations. By donning a red cape, a departure from the simplicity preferred by Francis, the newly elected pope suggests a bridge between the past and present of the papacy, reflecting a commitment to both tradition and innovation. “He’s positioning himself as his own man,” Pullella remarked.
Leo XIV’s election was a surprise to many, as observers expected a longer conclave. The quick decision came after just three rounds of voting, with the moment marked by the coveted white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel chimney. This year’s conclave stood out as the most international in history, with participants from over 70 nations, reflecting Pope Francis’s legacy of broadening the Church’s global perspective.
While expectations for Leo XIV’s leadership are still unfolding, his choice of the name “Leo” carries historical significance, harking back to Pope Leo XIII, known for his progressive social doctrines. Bruni emphasized this connection, suggesting that the new pope may draw lessons from Leo XIII’s encyclical that addressed widespread societal strife during the industrial age.
Some experts interpret Leo XIV’s name choice as a signal of his intent to unify the Church on a global scale, avoiding singular national allegiances, particularly to the United States. This shift is consistent with past critiques of nationalism and might indicate a desire for a more collaborative global approach.
As Pope Leo XIV’s tenure begins, many anticipate a blend of new ideas rooted in tradition. The world watches with hope, eager to see how his vision will shape the future of the Catholic Church in a rapidly changing world.