HABEMUS PAPAM
THE TALE OF POPE LEO XIV AND THE WINDS OF CHANGE
In a twist of fate that no one saw coming, the conclave of cardinals has gifted the world with a pope who is not only the first American but also the first Peruvian to ascend to the papal throne. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a man whose résumé reads like a mix between a devout monk and a global diplomat, has been elected as the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. Now known as Pope Leo XIV, he brings with him a blend of Midwestern charm, Peruvian warmth, and a healthy dose of ecclesiastical savvy. Move over, Europe—Chicago has entered the chat.
The American-Peruvian Enigma
Let’s start with the obvious: an American pope? That’s about as likely as finding a gluten-free communion wafer at Sunday Mass. For centuries, the Vatican has harbored an unspoken rule against electing a U.S. citizen as pope. Why? Because the United States already holds enough geopolitical sway, thank you very much. But Prevost, ever the clever cleric, sidestepped this taboo by adding a dash of Latin American spice to his credentials. Born in Chicago but reborn in Peru, he spent years in Chiclayo as a missionary and later as an archbishop. He even went so far as to acquire Peruvian citizenship in 2015, as if to say, “I’m not just American; I’m also Latin American—deal with it.”
Prevost’s dual nationality is more than just a quirky footnote; it’s a metaphor for the man himself. He embodies a bridge between worlds: North and South America, tradition and progress, humility and authority. If there were ever a pope who could juggle the complexities of modern Catholicism while still finding time to share a laugh over breakfast with his fellow priests, it’s Leo XIV.
The Augustinian Mastermind
Before we dive into his papal plans, let’s take a moment to appreciate Prevost’s pedigree. This is a man who was twice elected prior general of the Augustinian religious order—a group founded by none other than St. Augustine himself. For those unfamiliar with Augustinian spirituality, think of it as the intellectual cousin of monastic life: heavy on contemplation, light on drama. As head honcho of this 13th-century order, Prevost honed his skills in leadership, diplomacy, and, presumably, patience (because let’s face it, herding theologians is no easy task).
But Prevost wasn’t content to rest on his laurels. In 2023, Pope Francis plucked him from his Peruvian post and brought him to Rome to oversee one of the Vatican’s most powerful offices: the Dicastery for Bishops. This is the department that essentially decides who gets to wear the mitre and who doesn’t—a job that requires equal parts discernment and political finesse. And let’s not forget his role as president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, where he maintained close ties with the region that remains Catholicism’s heartland.
A Modern Pope for Modern Times
So, what makes Pope Leo XIV stand out in a sea of crimson-clad cardinals? For starters, he’s no stranger to reform. Under Pope Francis, he played a pivotal role in shaking up the bishop nomination process by adding three women to the voting bloc—a move that sent shockwaves through the Vatican’s hallowed halls. This wasn’t just a token gesture; it was a statement. By including women in such a critical decision-making process, Prevost signaled that he’s not afraid to challenge tradition when it serves the greater good.
And then there’s his age. At 69, Prevost is relatively young by papal standards. This could be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, his youthful energy (well, youthful-ish) means he could potentially lead the Church for two decades or more. On the other hand, some cardinals might have preferred an older pope whose reign would be shorter—less time for sweeping reforms and more time for business as usual.
But let’s not forget his secret weapon: humor. Yes, you read that right—humor. According to those who know him best, Prevost has an uncanny ability to maintain good humor and joy even in the face of adversity. Imagine that—a pope who can crack a joke while navigating the labyrinthine politics of Vatican City. If laughter truly is the best medicine, then Leo XIV might just be the doctor the Church needs.
The Conclave That Changed Everything
The election itself was a marvel of efficiency. In less than 24 hours—practically lightning speed by Vatican standards—the 133 cardinals reached a consensus. White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, and St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers. Catholics from around the world waved flags, chanted hymns, and craned their necks for a glimpse of their new spiritual leader.
Prevost’s election is particularly noteworthy given the context. His predecessor, Pope Francis, had spent 12 years steering the Church toward inclusivity and diversity—a legacy that Prevost seems poised to continue. In fact, many of the cardinals who voted for him were appointed by Francis himself, ensuring that his progressive vision would live on.
But let’s not pretend this was a foregone conclusion. The conclave wasn’t just about picking a pope; it was about choosing a path forward for Catholicism in an increasingly secular world. By electing Leo XIV, the cardinals sent a clear message: they’re ready for change—but not too much change all at once.
What Lies Ahead
So, what can we expect from Pope Leo XIV? For starters, he’ll likely continue Francis’ push for greater inclusivity within the Church. This could mean more roles for women in leadership positions, increased outreach to marginalized communities, and perhaps even some long-overdue discussions about controversial topics like clerical celibacy and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
But don’t mistake him for a radical firebrand. Prevost is nothing if not pragmatic. He understands that change within the Catholic Church is like turning a cruise ship—it takes time, patience, and no small amount of prayer. Expect him to strike a careful balance between honoring tradition and embracing progress.
And let’s not forget his knack for diplomacy. As someone who has lived and worked on two continents, Prevost is uniquely positioned to bridge divides within the global Church. Whether it’s mediating disputes between conservative and liberal factions or addressing tensions between North and South America, he has the skills—and the charm—to bring people together.
A Final Word on Humor
In closing, let us take a moment to appreciate what might be Pope Leo XIV’s greatest gift: his sense of humor. In an institution often criticized for its solemnity (and let’s be honest, its bureaucracy), having a pope who can laugh at himself—and perhaps even at the absurdities of Vatican life—is nothing short of revolutionary.
So here’s to Pope Leo XIV: a man who proves that you can be both devout and down-to-earth, both serious and lighthearted. May his reign be long, his jokes be plentiful, and his reforms be exactly what the Church needs in this ever-changing world.
Habemus Papam—and what a papam he is!
TRANSCRIPT: Pope Leo XIV’s first speech, in English
TRANSCRIPT: Pope Leo XIV's first speech, in English - BNO News https://bnonews.com/index.php/2025/05/transcript-pope-leo-xivs-first-speech-in-english/
Robert Prevost from Chicago was elected pope on Thursday, becoming the first pontiff from North America. He chose the name Leo XIV and addressed worshippers in Vatican City a short time later. His speech is transcribed below, translated to English.
“Peace be with you all!
Dearest brothers and sisters, this is the first greeting of the Risen Christ, the Good Shepherd who gave His life for God’s flock. I too wish that this greeting of peace may enter your hearts, reach your families, all people, wherever they may be, all peoples, the whole earth. Peace be with you!
This is the peace of the Risen Christ—an unarmed and disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, who loves us all unconditionally. We still hear in our ears the weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis blessing Rome!
The Pope who blessed Rome was giving his blessing to the world, to the whole world, that Easter morning. Allow me to continue that same blessing: God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail! We are all in God’s hands. Therefore, without fear, united hand in hand with God and with one another, let us go forward. We are disciples of Christ. Christ goes before us. The world needs His light. Humanity needs Him as the bridge to be reached by God and His love. Help us—and each other—to build bridges, through dialogue, through encounter, uniting everyone to be one people always in peace. Thank you, Pope Francis!
I also want to thank all my fellow cardinals who chose me to be the Successor of Peter and to walk with you, as a united Church always seeking peace, justice, always striving to work as men and women faithful to Jesus Christ, without fear, to proclaim the Gospel, to be missionaries.
I am a son of Saint Augustine, an Augustinian, who said: “With you I am a Christian, for you I am a bishop.” In this spirit, we can all walk together toward that homeland God has prepared for us.
To the Church of Rome, a special greeting! [applause] We must seek together how to be a missionary Church, a Church that builds bridges, dialogue, always open to receive like this square with open arms. Everyone—everyone who needs our charity, our presence, dialogue, and love.
And if you’ll allow me, a word, a greeting to all and in a special way to my dear diocese of Chiclayo, in Peru, where a faithful people have accompanied their bishop, have shared their faith, and have given so much, so much to remain a faithful Church of Jesus Christ.
To all of you, brothers and sisters of Rome, of Italy, of the whole world—we want to be a synodal Church, a Church that walks, a Church that always seeks peace, that always seeks charity, that always seeks to be close especially to those who suffer.
Today is the day of the Supplication to Our Lady of Pompeii. Our Mother Mary always wants to walk with us, be close, help us with her intercession and her love.
So I would like to pray together with you. Let us pray together for this new mission, for the whole Church, for peace in the world, and let us ask this special grace from Mary, our Mother.
Hail Mary.”
