Pope Leo XIV was elected as the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. Until recently, he was known as Cardinal Robert Prevost. On May 11, 2025, he was subsequently elected pope. The occasion was celebrated with the appearance of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel, an age-old sign that a new pope has been elected. After this momentous occasion, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. There, he inspired the world with his first Mass homily.
Pope Leo XIV is the first name they took when elected, and he’s hoping to join the original 12—St. The new pope’s election has sparked a lot of debate amongst CNN correspondents and deeply religious longtime followers of the church. His papacy is featured in a mini series on quirky popes, some of which have been very good for the Church. This shows his influence could be quite profound on the Church.
In his opening speech, delivered just five months ago, Pope Leo XIV spoke of his gratitude and hope for the future of the Church. A video documenting this moment hardly does justice to his homily. The passion, the sincerity, the raw emotion are all present and palpable. This simple message of hope and inclusion struck a chord with millions across the world, uniting people under themes of unity and compassion.
Following his first Mass, Pope Leo XIV led the Regina Caeli prayer from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, further solidifying his role as a spiritual leader. This outward expression of belief dovetails with his broader mission to build community within the worldwide Catholic family.
Pope Leo XIV’s history is rooted in a profound respect for education and mentorship. He was a student of Father Beck. Upon hearing that his former student had made it to such a high and exalted position in the Church, Mr. This very personal story supplies something of a human touch to the new pope’s narrative.
Locally in Chiclayo, Peru, discussions about Pope Leo XIV have turned to lighter topics, including his favorite dish, which has become a point of interest among residents. Here, too, is the great genius of Franklin’s life—the thing that makes him so relatable and appealing to ordinary people.