For the first time in the history of the Catholic Church, an American has been elected Pope. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, of Chicago, was proclaimed Pope Leo XIV, successor to Pope Francis, at the conclusion of a conclave at the Vatican.
The new pope, who spent decades in missionary service in Peru and speaks fluent Spanish and Italian, has been seen as a figure who represents a balance between Pope Francis' reformist line and a more traditional approach. He has been described as a "dignified center," a measured alternative between two often-clashing poles within the Church.
Who is Pope Leo XIV?
Ordained in 1982, Robert Francis Prevost holds a doctorate in canon law from Rome. He served for about 20 years in Peru and was bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023.
Prevost was appointed by Pope Francis to head the Dicastery for Bishops – one of the Vatican's most powerful offices.
He is known for his simple and approachable style. "A bishop should not be a little prince," he has said, "but a shepherd who walks with the people and suffers with them."
Why was he chosen?
Prevost is seen as a conciliatory figure with international experience, who can build bridges between continents and cultures. He has been one of the most mentioned names to inherit the line of Pope Francis, especially for his pastoral approach and support for migrants - including work with Venezuelan communities in Peru.
What is known about his positions?
On LGBTQ+: In a 2012 speech, he criticized the influence of pop culture on embracing gay lifestyles and non-traditional family structures. He hasn't publicly expressed new stances since.
On immigration: It has received positive reviews for its work with immigrants in Latin America.
On abuses in the Church: There has been criticism of the handling of several previous cases, but he has not commented since his appointment to the Vatican.
What is expected of the new Pope?
Pope Leo XIV comes at a pivotal moment for the global Catholic Church, amid internal divisions and external challenges. With his long experience in Latin America and his balanced stance, many hope for a papacy focused on service and unity of the faithful.
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Source: Newsweek
