The Catholic Church is stepping into a remarkable new chapter with the election of Pope Leo XIV, who was previously known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago. As the first American to take on the papacy, his leadership is already shining through with a strong focus on global peace, ethical technology, and a heartfelt connection to his heritage.
🕊️ A Pontiff for Peace
In his very first Sunday address, Pope Leo XIV made a heartfelt plea for an end to worldwide conflicts. Addressing a crowd of around 100,000 in St. Peter’s Square, he called for immediate ceasefires in Ukraine and Gaza, the release of hostages, and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid. He also shared his hopes for lasting peace between India and Pakistan. Following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Pope Francis, he declared, “No more war,” emphasizing the ongoing global strife as a “third World War in pieces.”
Pope Leo’s position on Ukraine marks a notable shift from the Vatican’s previous stance of neutrality. During a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, he voiced strong support for a fair and lasting peace, advocating for the release of prisoners and the return of abducted children. Zelenskyy has even invited the pontiff to visit Ukraine, seeing him as a “pope of peace.”
🤖 Embracing Ethical Technology
Pope Leo XIV’s choice of name signals a progressive approach to the challenges of our time. Drawing inspiration from Pope Leo XIII, who championed workers’ rights during the Industrial Revolution, Pope Leo XIV aims to tackle the ethical dilemmas posed by the age of AI. In his inaugural address, he stressed the need to uphold human dignity, justice, and labor rights in the face of rapid technological change. He compared today’s AI revolution to the transformative impact of the 19th-century industrial era, urging the Church to take an active role in addressing modern ethical issues.
Here’s the text we’re diving into: 🇺🇸 Celebrating American Roots
Chicago, the hometown of Pope Leo XIV, is celebrating his rise in some pretty unique ways. Local favorite Portillo’s has temporarily changed the name of its beloved Italian Beef Sandwich to “The Leo” for the whole month of May, which also happens to be Italian Beef Month. This delicious sandwich is packed with seasoned Italian beef, rich gravy, and your choice of sweet or hot peppers. Over in Evanston, Bennison’s Bakery is getting in on the fun too, offering special limited-edition Pope sugar cookies to mark the occasion.
New York Post
🌍 Global Support and Anticipation
The worldwide Catholic community is rallying around Pope Leo XIV with incredible support. Around 270,000 pilgrims gathered at the Fatima shrine in Portugal to pray for the new pope and for global peace, coinciding with the annual celebration of the Virgin Mary’s famous 1917 apparitions. This impressive turnout shows just how much hope people have in Pope Leo’s leadership, especially after his recent calls for an end to war during his first public address.
In the U.S., the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston held a special Mass at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart to honor the new pope’s election and his vision for global peace. Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez praised Pope Leo XIV for his dedication to peace and his spiritual guidance.
📅 Upcoming Inauguration
Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration is set for May 18 in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City. Prince Edward will be there to represent King Charles at the ceremony, underscoring the global importance of this event. This inauguration will officially kick off his papacy and is expected to draw numerous world leaders.
