I never thought I’d see an American pope. But Leo XIV is suited to our times | Opinion
As a life-long Catholic, I can honestly say I never thought I’d see the first American pope. But on Thursday, Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected by the College of Cardinals and became Pope Leo XIV.
At 69, Leo XIV brings a lot to the papacy in terms of pastoral leadership and his missionary experience. He spent decades in Chiclayo, Peru, working alongside the poor and serving in local parishes, experiences that shaped him into a servant-leader similar to Pope Francis.
But to be fair, no matter who became the next pope, I would have been elated. It’s the pope! Watching Leo XIV step out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for the first time and greet the world saying, “Peace be with all of you,” was more than liturgical formality. It was a reassurance that everything will be OK.
The swiftness in which the new pope was elected was striking. I assumed the world would have a new pope by the weekend, not barely 24 hours after the conclave began.
But the speed of the conclave’s decision was reassuring. At a time when the institutions feel more fragile than ever, the unity of the College of Cardinals reminded the world that some institutions remain strong and that we can lean on them.
During his first papal address, Leo XIV underscored the need to create a “church that builds bridges, that is always open to receive everyone.” These words echo the sentiments of Francis, but now they are also Leo XIV’s: Everyone is welcome in the Catholic Church.
As with every leader, there are critics. Questions have been raised about whether he failed to act on or mishandled sexual abuse cases in Peru and the United States involving priests. These are not minor concerns and they should be taken seriously – no pope, regardless of how beloved, is above accountability.
However, it would be a mistake to let Leo XIV be defined by his critics alone. He reminds us that no human is infallible, not even the pope. He is a man elevated by faith and shaped by service. And now he must guide 1.3 billion Catholics in an uncertain and divided world.
In America, where faith has become a political battleground, Leo XIV’s election reminds the world of the Church’s enduring global identity. Though he is from Chicago, when he stepped onto the papal balcony, he left behind his identity as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost to serve a higher calling.
By choosing the name “Leo” — Latin for lion — he signaled strength and resolve to protect the Church’s integrity, showing that he understands we are living in a world that is hyper-connected, fractured and anxious. And while the Church can’t solve every problem or crisis, it can serve as a pillar of moral authority and a beacon of hope at a time when we need it so much.
Leo XIV’s message of peace and call to openness reminds us all that we are deserving of grace. As someone who believes that faith endures and the Church still has the power to inspire, I see Leo XIV’s election as a sign that grace is still present. For Catholics like me, the election of this pope reminds us that the Church will guide us, even in uncertain times like these.
Mary Anna Mancuso is a member of the Miami Herald Editorial Board. Her email: mmancuso@miamiherald.com
This story was originally published May 8, 2025 at 8:30 PM.