Pope Leo XIV becomes the First American Pontiff

        Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost who will be known as Pope Leo XIV , took over as the 267th  leader of the Roman Catholic Church on Thursday( 8th May). Pope Leo XIV delivered his first speech from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City also known as the  Loggia of the Blessings. He opened his speech with the most powerful words, “ Peace be with you and all” and greeted the world , marking the dawn of a new papacy.

The First American Pope –

        There has been a buzz in the air since Thursday after Robert Francis Pope was chosen as the pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. This election marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIV became the first pontiff to be elected from the United States who made his way inside the Vatican walls. The Vatican always preferred leaders from the European countries and this break from tradition has sparked mixed reactions among the people of the world. Apart from the controversies, U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated the new Pope calling it, “a great honour for our country” along with many other influential people who wished the Pope on social media.

Choice of Name Speaks Louder than Words –

        Robert Francis Prevost chose to be addressed as Pope Leo XIV. The name Leo usually means strength and courage and the bold choice of name has kept the congregation on the edge to witness the focus of this new Pope.

A little background check –

        Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, Pope Leo XIV was raised in a catholic family. He joined the Augustinian Order and dedicated his life to the preaching of Saint Augustine. He spent many years in Peru as a missionary and later became a Bishop in Peru where he served God and his people. Pope Leo XIV has chosen the motto ‘In illo uno umum’ which means ‘ In the one Christ we are one’ in Latin. Whether he brings in a reformation or renewal or just stillness , one thing is clear,  his voice is new and his message is timeless.