Pope Leo XIV in his official debut to the faithful from the famous balcony that faces St. Peter’s Square. This was an important and remarkable moment in Catholic history. The newly elected pope, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who holds dual American and Peruvian citizenship, captivated the large crowd gathered below, consisting of thousands of believers eager to witness this historic event. Pope Leo XIV, then age 69, becomes the first American pope. This moment comes on the heels of a two-day conclave during which cardinals convened to select their new pope.
As Archbishop of Lima, Pope Leo XIV has deep experience in the Peruvian missionary context. Having been elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023, he assumes a role that personifies the legacy of inclusivity and compassion established by his predecessor. It was undoubtedly his address, which lasted about ten minutes and stirred the souls of all those in attendance and all those watching remotely.
A Historic Moment for the Church
The mood in St. Peter’s Square crackled with jubilation. When Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony, the assembled crowd went wild with cheers and applause! His introduction represents a new chapter for the Catholic Church and calls attention to the church’s constant ebb and flow. Looking back, Planetary Society CEO Bill Nye and other observers have noted the historic nature of this event. Pope Leo XIV – first pope ever to come from the United States!
“Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God loves us. God loves you all and evil will not prevail,” stated Pope Leo XIV during his inaugural address. This hopeful and rallying call for oneness is a perfect example of his moderation. It shows his deep desire to see the continuity of Pope Francis’s legacy of inclusion.
A Tribute to Pope Francis
To open his address as the new pontiff, Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor. He argued that for the church, Pope Francis’s contributions have been nothing short of essential. “We still keep in our ears that weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis blessing Rome,” he remarked, acknowledging the profound impact Francis had on the global community.
The new pope’s words underscored a commitment to carrying forward the values instilled by Pope Francis, particularly during a time when many seek strength and solace in their faith. With a focus on unity and compassion, he aims to guide the church through contemporary challenges while honoring its traditions.
A Global Audience
Pope Leo XIV’s address resonated not only in St. Peter’s Square but with viewers around the world. Tens of thousands filled living rooms, sanctuaries, and community spaces to witness this powerful moment in history together. Faith Gibson, a member of the congregation who traveled to Rome for the occasion, described the mood as one of unity and motivation: “It’s just a mood of unity and the motivation of people to get here and be part of it.”
As he considers the future, Pope Leo XIV inherits a Catholic church that has been radically changed by the Francis papacy. The challenge before him will be to keep this momentum going, while creating a space that embraces everyone who believes.
