Megan Lander | Student Life Editor
May 9th, 2025
Following the death of Pope Francis a day after Easter on Monday, April 21, 2025, the Catholic Church elected a new leader who will become the pope. Cardinal Robert Prevost will continue the multi-centenarian tradition and reign as Pope Leo XIV. After a conclave, a private meeting in the Sistine Chapel where an assembly of Cardinals elects the pope, white smoke blows out from the rooftop to signify that the decision has been made. San Clemente Junior Quincy Connors noticed how she “didn’t expect the election process to happen so quickly after the death of Pope Francis.” In cases like these, the choosing of the new Pope relatively quickly helps to maintain order, as the pope is a global leader and figure for religious groups to look up to.
Prevost originally grew up in the United States in the city of Chicago. He has also spent much of his career as a missionary in Peru and other parts of South America helping rebuild bridges and infrastructure, teach seminars, become a bishop of Chiclayo, and help navigate a civil war. Through these accumulated experiences in over two decades, Prevost has shaped his approach and understanding of leadership. This election was a momentous occasion that has grabbed the attention of global communities as he stands as the first and only American pope in history. “I think it’s pretty cool that he is the first American Pope,” says SCHS Junior Abby Ruderow. As a new American lineage is built into this system with his election, this could help boost the reputation and restore foreign views of the stereotypical American morals to strengthen international bonds, alliances, and respect for one another. Despite his roots in the Americas, Pope Leo XIV will live out his life in the Vatican City (within Rome, Italy) where he was elected to serve his duties to the people in a government known as the Holy See.
From the top of the Vatican balcony, Pope Leo XIV initiated his rule with words of peace and unity. He wanted to make his ambitions clear that the Church seeks reconciliation of world justice. The election represents the diversity within the Catholic Church as there were a significant number of cardinal candidates from various parts of the world. Prevost was chosen due to his path to the papacy through his previous service to the Church as the general of the Order of ST. Augustine and his more recent role as a cardinal reviewing bishop nominations. He is also commended for his focus and commitment to reinstate social justice for poorer or marginalized communities. These are some qualities and values that directly align with the late Pope Francis.
Overall, the world seems to be happy about the announcement that Pope Leo XIV is the new global figure as he brings a sense of hope and anticipation for the future. To celebrate his new status, tens of thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square chanting “Habemus Papam” meaning, “We have a pope!” while waving world flags. Religion is a major part of people’s lives and granted, a predominant way that people stay connected and support each other. While the future of the Catholic Church under Pope Leo XIV remains to be seen, there has been an overflowing amount of positivity and praise towards his leadership for his commitment to service and global needs. His election captures a new point in history where his rule will be closely watched as he navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead. Pope Leo XIV is a symbol to the world as a beacon of hope and unity in a complex life.
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