In a moment that will go down in Church history, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, emerged on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on May 8, 2025, as the newly elected Pope Leo XIV — the first American to ever hold the papacy. The white smoke from the Sistine Chapel signaled the conclusion of the conclave, drawing cheers from crowds in Vatican City and from Catholics around the world.
Greeting the public with a message of hope and unity, Pope Leo declared, “Peace be with you — the peace of the Risen Christ. A humble and persistent peace that reflects God’s unconditional love for all.”
But while many hailed the milestone, the reaction in parts of the U.S. — particularly among supporters of former President Donald Trump — was sharply critical.
Why the Name ‘Leo’?
The new Pope’s choice of the name “Leo” holds weight within Catholic tradition. The last Pope to use it was Leo XIII, who led the Church from 1878 to 1903. Even more significant is the legacy of Leo the Great, famed for persuading Attila the Hun not to invade Rome in the 5th century.
According to Church historian Candida Moss, the name might signal Leo XIV’s intent to resist oppressive forces — both political and spiritual — just as his namesake once did.
From Chicago Roots to Global Influence
Born in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood in 1955 and raised in suburban Dolton, Prevost was raised in a deeply Catholic household with French and Spanish immigrant heritage. According to his brother, John, he felt called to the priesthood as early as first grade.
After seminary and studies at Villanova, he spent much of his early ministry in Peru, where he later became bishop of Chiclayo. He holds citizenship in both the U.S. and Peru and is remembered by peers as compassionate, down-to-earth, and culturally engaged.
“He had a good singing voice, loved making pizza, and was beloved by everyone in the parish,” said Rev. John Lyndon, who shared a rectory with him for a decade.
Blending Tradition with a Contemporary Tone
Though Pope Leo XIV aligns with his predecessor Francis in tone — particularly in promoting inclusivity — he remains doctrinally conservative. He has expressed openness toward marginalized Catholics, emphasized environmental responsibility, and encouraged social justice rooted in faith.
In a recent speech, he said, “Now is the time for action. Our connection to creation must be based on mutual care.”
Trump Praises, Base Erupts
Former President Donald Trump offered congratulations on social media: “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope. What an honor for our country!”
However, some of Trump’s staunchest supporters were far less welcoming. Right-wing commentators slammed Leo’s views on immigration and social equity, labeling him “woke,” “liberal,” and worse.
Conservative influencer Mike Cernovich claimed Leo would push leftist policies like open borders and abortion. Others reposted past social media statements where Prevost challenged nationalist rhetoric, including a post responding to Senator JD Vance: “Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.”
These comments resurfaced quickly after the announcement, fueling outrage among some on the far right who view Leo’s humanitarian outlook as a challenge to their ideology.
A Surprising Pick, Even to Family
Though Cardinal Tagle of the Philippines was considered a frontrunner, the conclave selected Leo in under 24 hours — a swift decision by Vatican standards.
His brother John admitted the news came as a shock. “He didn’t expect it. I had a feeling, but it’s still surreal,” he said.
As Leo XIV begins his papacy, he inherits a Church navigating complex global challenges — and a political landscape where his American roots make him a lightning rod for criticism.
Still, many faithful view him as a leader grounded in empathy, shaped by global experience, and committed to preserving the Church’s mission with clarity and compassion.
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