Pope Leo XIV’s Live Address: Cardinal Seeks Bridge-Building With Trump, Overcoming Past Criticisms

Key Points

• Church must light ‘the dark nights of this world’
• View: Pope Leo XIV speaks to cardinals during his inaugural mass as pontiff
• Global figures extend their congratulations to Pope Leo
• The instant Robert Prevost is named Pope Leo XIV
• Make America Great Again faces meltdown over ‘MARXIST WOKE POPE’ labeled as a ‘Never Trumper liberal’

Is Pope Leo XIV a supporter of the Chicago White Sox or the Chicago Cubs?

18:40
,
Mike Bedigan

When Chicago-born Robert Francis Prevost stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday, sports enthusiasts across the board shared a single query.

James Liddell

addresses the crucial query: Which team does the American Pope support—the Chicago Cubs or the Chicago White Sox?

Is Pope Leo XIV a supporter of the Chicago White Sox or the Chicago Cubs?

Watch: Cardinal Dolan teases that New Yorkers should go easy on Chicago’s Pope Leo.

18:20
,
Mike Bedigan

Pope Leo stayed in his former residence for the initial night after becoming pontiff.

18:00
,
Mike Bedigan

Robert Prevost, who has become Pope Leo XIV, decided to spend his inaugural evening as the pontiff at his former dwelling. This gesture suggests he might depart from established customs.

According to reports from the Vatican, Leo spent Thursday night at the Palazzo del Sant’Uffizio, rather than the Apostolic Palace where popes typically live.

Francis opted to reside in an apartment at the Santa Maria guesthouse.

During his initial hours as pope, Leo returned to his former residence to visit coworkers, as evidenced by selfies shared on social media.

Vatican Media also displayed footage of him praying shortly following his election, prior to appearing on the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica to address both Rome and the global community.

Watch: New York cardinal expresses gratitude as his family acknowledges relief over him not being elected Pope

17:40
,
Mike Bedigan

How might Trump interact with the newly elected pope?

17:20
,
Rachel Clun

A specialist from the Vatican anticipates a possibly complicated relationship between the recently chosen Pope Leo XIV and U.S. President Donald Trump.

Although President Trump showed enthusiasm and pride about an American heading the 1.4 billion-strong Catholic Church, the Pope’s previous social media posts indicate possible tensions.

However, UK theologian Professor Anna Rowlands, who had an audience with Pope Leo XIV just hours following his election, thinks that the newly elected pope will manage these intricate matters with a blend of diplomatic skill and firm belief.

Read more below:

A Vatican authority weighs in on Trump’s connection with the newly elected pontiff.

The Vatican confirms additional pledges made by Pope Leo XIV.

17:00
,
Mike Bedigan

The Vatican has verified additional pledges made by Pope Leo XIV.
The Associated Press:

• On Saturday, he has a meeting with the Cardinals.
• Sunday, he is set to deliver his first noon blessing from the loggia
• On Monday, he will meet with the press.
• On Friday, May 16, he has meetings with international representatives.
• On Sunday, May 18, he marks his first Mass celebration at St. Peter’s Square.
• On Wednesday, May 21, he will hold his initial general audience.

The newly elected Pope has likewise received an invitation to visit Turkey towards the end of May for the 1,700-year commemoration of the First Council of Nicaea—a pivotal occurrence in Christian annals and a significant juncture in enhancing ties between Catholics and Orthodox Christians.

Dolan hopes New Yorkers will not have a ‘grudge’ against Pope because he’s from Chicago

16:40
,
Mike Bedigan

Cardinal Timothy Dolan stated that he doesn’t wish for New York’s Catholic community to harbor resentment toward the new Pope due to his background in Chicago.

On Thursday, Robert Prevost, who later became Pope Leo XIV after being elected, grew up on the southern part of the city.

“I simply want to make sure that everyone in New York doesn’t hold a grudge against Pope Leo due to his background in Chicago; let’s put that issue to rest,” said Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, during a video address on Friday.

What makes it wonderful is precisely the fact that… you know, we, the people of the United States, feel a sense of pride.

He remarked, “At least no one will ever question me about ‘whether there’ll be an American pope?’ Well, now we have one!”

Dolan also noted that technically, there had already been a Pope from “the Americas” preceding Leo, as seen with his immediate predecessor, Pope Francis.

Cardinal Dolan states that Robert Prevost will make an excellent pope.

16:20
,
Mike Bedigan

In a video shared on his social media, U.S. Cardinal Timothy Dolan stated that his fellow countryman Robert Prevost would make “a darn good pope.”

“We have a new pope, and I am deeply honored—as a priest, as a follower of Jesus Christ, as a child of God, and as a devoted Catholic. I trust that my roles as a priest, bishop, and cardinal may have played a significant part in this event. I believe each one of you shares in this excitement,” he stated.

It’s a fantastic time of excitement, optimism, and potential for the church. I truly hope you can feel this.

We have ourselves a pope… and trust me, he’s an excellent one.

Dolan mentioned he plans to remain in Rome for the installation of Prevost – who will assume the title of Pope Leo XIV – prior to his return to New York.

“I miss you, but I’m grateful for your prayers and your support,” he stated.

Cardinal Dolan mentions that his family feels pleased he isn’t the Pope.

16:05
,
Mike Bedigan

American Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who took part in the papal conclave that selected his compatriot Robert Prevost as pope, mentions that his family feels “pleased” he wasn’t picked for the position of pontiff.

In an online video, Dolan mentioned that his nephew, who came into the world on the same day Pope Francis was chosen, stated that their entire family had been “in tears and cheers” upon hearing the news.

“[He mentioned], ‘I’m relieved you’re not the Pope, since we’d like for you to return home,’” Dolan stated.

“I’m somewhat relieved for the Church that I’m not the Pope, but this is also a wonderful moment of excitement, hope, and potential for the Church,” he remarked.

Cardinal states Pope Leo aims to construct bridges with Trump.

15:44
,
Rachel Clun

American Cardinal Timothy Dolan suggests that Pope Leo XIV might seek to create bridges with Donald Trump.

“We would view Pope Leo as a unifier. The term ‘pontiff’ in Latin conveys this idea,” he explained.

“He’s a bridge builder. He want to build bridges to Donald Trump, I suppose, but he would want to build bridges with the leader of every nation.”

Pope Leo XIV has faced criticism from MAGA commentators who have labeled him a “WOKE MARXIST POPE,” and he had also previously posted on social media criticizing the U.S. President.

How Robert Prevost communicated with his fellow cardinals before and during the conclave.

15:40
,
Rachel Clun

The American Cardinals have outlined that Chicago-native Robert Prevost was chosen as Pope on Thursday.

When asked by a journalist if Cardinal Prevost’s comments could have influenced the conclave’s choice, Cardinal Wilton Gregory mentioned that he communicated effectively both within smaller circles and to the broader assembly.

“He participated quite successfully in the small group discussions,” he mentioned.

There were numerous other cardinals who weren’t eligible to vote—our elder brethren participating in the congregations as well. However, much discussion took place during mealtimes, coffee breaks, and those occasions when people could interact with each other in more intimate settings.

Cardinal Gregory, who served as the Archbishop of Washington from 2019 to 2025, went on to say: “There was an instance when I spoke with Cardinal Prevost, and our conversation revolved around Chicago; however, it didn’t happen that he stood up delivering such a compelling address that left everyone completely impressed.”

Encounters with diplomats and his initial public address: Pope Leo’s schedule for the upcoming days

15:33
,
Rachel Clun

The Vatican has disclosed the schedule of the new Pope’s official commitments for the next ten days.

The following day, he has an appointment with the cardinals, and on Sunday, he will deliver the Regina Caeli prayer from the St. Peter’s Basilica loggia — marking his second time appearing publicly from the balcony that overlooks St. Peter’s Square.

On Monday, he will have an encounter with the recognized international media, followed by a meeting with the Diplomatic Corps’ Ambassadors on Friday.

His following public appearance will take place on Sunday, May 18th, where he will celebrate a Mass signifying the start of his papacy in St. Peter’s Square. His initial general audience is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21st.

Ex-disciple describes the newly appointed American head of the Catholic Church

15:18
,
Rachel Clun

Father Rob Hagan had consistently called him “Bob.”

He now stated, “Calling him Pope Leo XIV is merely an honor.”

In an interview with
The Independent
Father Hagan mentioned that Pope Leo was “exceptionally intelligent” and proficient in multiple languages, yet he also had a gentle personality.

He possesses genuine accessibility and warmth, with a sparkle in his eye; truly, he is a blessing for both the church and the world.

Please read the complete interview below:

‘A sparkle in his gaze’: Ex-apprentice recounts American poised to head the Catholic Church

Pope cautions against prioritizing technology and authority over belief.

15:03
,
Rachel Clun

During his inaugural address as Pope this morning, Pope Leo XIV cautioned against prioritizing “technology, wealth, achievement, authority, or enjoyment” above adherence to Christianity, noting that this makes it increasingly crucial to continue the mission of the Church.

Here’s more from what he shared during his initial Mass:

Even now, numerous environments view the Christian belief as nonsensical, catering only to those deemed feeble-minded. In such contexts, alternatives like technological advancements, financial wealth, personal achievements, authority, or hedonistic enjoyments tend to be favored instead.

In these settings, sharing the message of the Gospel and upholding its veracity becomes challenging, as followers of Christ often face mockery, opposition, contempt, or at most, tolerance coupled with pity.

Yet, precisely for this reason, they are the places where our missionary outreach is desperately needed. A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life, the neglect of mercy, appalling violations of human dignity, the crisis of the family and so many other wounds that afflict our society.

Peru brimmed with ‘pride and hope’ following the election of Pope Leo.

14:52
,
Rachel Clun

President Dina Boluarte of Peru has expressed that her nation is brimming with “pride and hope” following the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope.

For numerous years, the Pope has considered Peru his residence and holds citizenship of this South American country. From 2015 until 2023, he functioned as the Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru before being selected for this position by Pope Francis.

“His victory brings joy and optimism to our country, which was his homeland, his calling, and his belief,” Ms Boluarte stated.

Let his papacy serve as a beacon of peace, justice, and love for the globe.

In images: Pope Leo gives his inaugural address as pontiff

14:37
,
Rachel Clun

In the Sistine Chapel, where he had become Pope just under 24 hours prior, Leo XIV gave a homily during the celebration of Holy Mass.

Pope Leo faces criticism for not adequately looking into claims of child sexual abuse within his church.

14:22
,
Tom Watling

Pope Leo faces criticism for not adequately looking into claims of child sexual abuse involving clergy members at his churches in Chicago and Peru.

The Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests (SNAP) claim they have informed the Vatican about Cardinal Robert Prevost’s alleged failure to act upon the accusations. In March, they filed an official complaint against the newly appointed Pope with the Vatican authorities. According to them, they haven’t received any reply yet.

Check out the complete report there:

Pope Leo faces criticism for inadequate investigation into claims of child sexual abuse.

The childhood neighbor forecasted that Robert Prevost would someday become Pope.

14:07
,
AP

One of Pope Leo XIV’s neighbors guessed when he was just a young lad that he would one day ascend to the papacy.

One of Leo’s siblings, John Prevost, believes this occurred during Leo’s first-grade year.

He mentioned that one of the neighborhood women from across the street told him, ‘You will be the first American pope.’ He added, ‘I have no idea how she came to that conclusion.’

Pope Leo’s kin share insights into his final days leading up to the conclave

13:52
,
Tom Watling

Before the secret ballot at the Vatican that would lead to him becoming the first American leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo spent time watching the movie “Conclave” to get an idea of what was ahead, according to his brother.

John Prevost recounted the instant he learned that his younger brother was appointed as the new leader of the Catholic Church.

“I found myself in a state of disbelief, thinking that this couldn’t possibly be happening as it was too distant from our expectations,” John stated to NBC while speaking from his residence in New Lenox, Illinois.

When questioned whether Pope Leo would watch the movie “Conclave” for guidance, John mentioned that he did. “This way, he understood how to act. It’s all about that sort of thing since I aimed to distract him from stress, make him chuckle at something else, as this has become quite a significant duty,” John further explained.

Read further about comments made by Pope Leo’s brothers and sisters below:

Pope Leo viewed the film “Conclave” days prior to the significant Vatican vote, as disclosed by his brother.

Pope Leo has decided not to make changes to the leadership positions within the Vatican at this time.

13:37
,
Rachel Clun

The Vatican has stated that the newly elected Pope does not plan to alter the leadership positions within the city-state for now.

“The Vatican stated that His Holiness Pope Leo XIV wishes for the Directors and members of the institutions within the Roman Curia, along with the Secretaries and the President of the Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State, to remain temporarily in their current positions pending further instructions,” according to an official announcement.

The Pope desires to set aside a specific period for contemplation, prayer, and discussion prior to making any final decision or providing approval.

Analysis: Could Pope Leo XIV be the one to confront Trump?

13:22
,
Rachel Clun

A hint about howPrevost views his position as the headofthe global Catholic community of 1.4 billion followersis evidentinhis selection of the papal name.

Catherine Pepinster

writes.

In the realm of Catholicism, a Leo is often viewed as a pontiff who brings about reforms. The newly elected Pope might turn out to be quite serious business for the U.S. president and his administration.

Find her complete analysis below:

Is Pope Leo XIV the liberal leader expected to confront Trump?

View: MAGA meltdown about the “wokeness of Marxist Pope”

13:07
,
Rachel Clun

Trump greets the newly appointed American pontiff with enthusiasm.

12:52
,
Rachel Clun

Donald Trump greeted the election of an American as Pope with “excitement.”

“ Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who has been appointed as Pope. It’s quite remarkable to see that he is the first American Pope,” he posted on his TruthSocial account.

What thrilling anticipation and such a tremendous honor for our nation! I am looking forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV; it will indeed be an immensely significant moment!

The praise was still given out even though Leo XIV had earlier expressed criticism of Trump’s administration on social media platforms.

Learn more about the Pope’s views on White House policies here.

Watch: Sibling Discloses That Pope Leo Observed Conclave and Played Wordle Prior to His Election

12:37
,
Rachel Clun

Previous U.S. presidents extend their congratulations for the ‘historic’ first American pope.

12:23
,
Rachel Clun

Previous U.S. presidents have greeted the announcement of the first-ever American pontiff with enthusiasm.

Joe Biden, a devoted Catholic, stated: “We have a pope – may God bless Pope Leo XIV of Illinois.”

Jill and I extend our congratulations to him and hope for his success.

Barack Obama mentioned that both he and Michelle extended their best wishes to “someone from their hometown.”

“This marks a significant day for the United States, and we shall pray for him as he embarks on the holy task of guiding the Catholic Church and serving as a role model for countless individuals, irrespective of their religious beliefs,” he stated.

Bill Clinton voiced agreement with that notion.

“His Holiness Pope Leo XIV spoke to billions—Catholics and non-Catholics alike—calling for unity and offering peace, a message the world needs now more than ever,” he said.

As the initial American to head the Catholic Church, his selection represents a significant milestone. I concur with extending best wishes to His Holiness.

Pope Leo expresses sorrow over the misinterpretation of Christian doctrine.

12:09
,
Rachel Clun, AP

Previously, during his inaugural homily as Pope, Leo XIV expressed sorrow over the reality that in numerous regions across the globe, Christianity is seen as “absurd” or as a belief system intended only for those who are feeble-minded and lacking intelligence.

He similarly lamented that in numerous instances, Jesus is misinterpreted as merely a sort of enchanting figure or an extraordinary man.

He stated that this applies not just to those without faith, but also to numerous baptized Christians, leading them effectively to live as atheists in this aspect.

“Yet, precisely for this reason, they are the places where our missionary outreach is desperately needed. A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life, the neglect of mercy, appalling violations of human dignity, the crisis of the family and so many other wounds that afflict our society.”

The cardinals applauded as the Mass concluded.

Leo was seen wearing simple black shoes, not the red loafers of the papacy preferred by some traditionalist popes.

Where does the name Leo originate from?

11:54
,
Rachel Clun

The ex-cardinal Robert Prevost selected the name Leo for his papal title, making him the 14th pontiff to adopt this designation.

This decision was largely attributed to the previous Pope with the same name, Pope Leo XIII, who led the Church from 1878 to 1903.

Pope Leo XIII was renowned for his strong emphasis on social justice matters and is frequently recognized as the architect of contemporary Catholic social doctrine.

A different Leo experienced one of the briefest papacies ever recorded. Pope Leo XI’s tenure began on April 1, 1605, and concluded with his passing just 27 days later on April 27, 1605.

Learn more about the history of papal names here:

Pope Leo XIV: Insights Into His Future Plans Through His Choice of Name

Additional pictures from the Holy Mass held in the Sistine Chapel

11:39
,
Rachel Clun, Reuters

Pope Leo XIV commemorated his inaugural Mass in the Sistine Chapel alongside the same cardinals who had chosen him as Pope just under 24 hours prior.

The ex-Cardinal Robert Prevost and the inaugural American Pope were robed in white and gold vestments, appearing calm as they conducted the Mass within the renowned, fresco-adorned chapel.

The church must illuminate the dark nights of this world.

11:26
,
Reuters

During his inaugural Mass as Pope, Leo XIV sketched out the vision of the spiritual community within the Church that he aimed to foster throughout his tenure.

“G od has … placed this treasure in my care so that, with His assistance, I can serve as a devoted steward for the well-being of the whole mystical body of the Church,” he stated during his sermon.

“In doing so, he aims for her to become increasingly a city established on a hill, an ark of deliverance navigating through the tides of history, and a lighthouse illuminating the dark nights of our world,” as stated in the official translation.

The church with 1.4 billion members wasn’t remarkable due to “the splendor of its edifices or the majesty of its constructions, but instead because of the sanctity of its followers.”

View: Pope Leo XIV speaks with cardinals

11:21
,
Rachel Clun

In images: Pope Leo performs inaugural Holy Mass in the Sistine Chapel

11:08
,
Rachel Clun

Pope Leo XIV is conducting his inaugural mass.

The Pope’s complete remarks in English at the start of his sermon

10:53
,
Rachel Clun

As Pope Leo XIV gave his homily in Italian, he started with a few words in English.

Here are those remarks in full:

I start with a phrase in English, followed by the remainder in Italian, repeating the words from the responsorial psalm: ‘I will sing a new song to the Lord because he has performed wonders’.

And truly, not only for me but also for all of us, my fellow cardinal brothers, as we gather today, I encourage you to acknowledge the wonders that the Lord has performed and the blessings He continuously bestows upon each one of us.

Through the work of Peter, you have guided me to bear this burden and embrace that calling, knowing fully well that I can depend on all of you to support me as we move forward together as a congregation, as a fellowship of Christ’s friends who are also his followers, spreading the joyful message, proclaiming the Gospel.

Pope states: ‘Acknowledge the wonders the Lord has performed’

10:37
,
Rachel Clun

Pope Leo XIV has started his speech in English.

He appealed to the assembled cardinals and those watching faithfully to “acknowledge the wonders the Lord has performed.”

“You have called me to carry that cross, to be blessed with that mission,” he said.

I am confident that all of you will stand beside me as we move forward together as a congregation, as a fellowship of Christ’s friends who believe, to spread the good news, to share the gospel.

Watch: Pope Leo XIV goes into the Sistine Chapel to celebrate his inaugural Mass as pontiff.

10:29
,
Rachel Clun

The Pope conducting a Mass and leading prayers.

10:21
,
Rachel Clun

The newly elected Pope commenced the special mass at the Sistine Chapel, admitting his transgressions before guiding the assembly in a prayer.

A Bible passage is currently being read in English.

King Charles II privately congratulated Pope Leo XIV.

10:15
,
Rachel Clun

Buckingham Palace stated that The King has conveyed a personal message to Pope Leo XIV, offering congratulations for his selection as the 267th pope and Bishop of Rome.

The entrance parade makes its way into the Sistine Chapel.

10:10
,
Rachel Clun

The parade for the commencement of the Holy Mass has started.

As the Pope enters the chapel with a big golden cross in hand, the choir starts to sing.

The cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel for their initial Mass.

10:07
,
Rachel Clun

Clad entirely in white, the cardinals have assembled within the Sistine Chapel for Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural mass.

Only yesterday evening, they convened within the very same chapel to determine whom ought to become the subsequent leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

Tune in live: Pope Leo XIV celebrates his first Mass

09:52
,
Rachel Clun

Pope Leo XIV is celebrating his inaugural Mass. Tune in now for the live broadcast.

It has been suggested that Parolin withdrew to permit Prevost to assume the papacy.

09:42
,
Rachel Clun

The discussions within the conclave are intended to remain confidential.

Nevertheless, Italian media outlets have been buzzing with theories on how American Cardinal Robert Prevost managed to win the papal election, surpassing numerous other prominent candidates.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who serves as the second highest-ranking figure at the Vatican under Pope Francis, was considered the strong front-runner heading into the conclave, and
Corriere della Sera
he obtained a significant number of votes yet still fell short of achieving a two-thirds majority.

The news source reported that after some accounts, Parolin subsequently withdrew, giving way to Prevost.

Considering the oath of confidentiality the cardinals swore at the start of the conclave, it’s improbable we’ll ever definitively learn how the voting went—unless the pope chooses to reveal it himself.

View: Newly Elected Pope Blesses Crowd Shortly After His Selection

09:29
,
Rachel Clun

Global figures hail new Pope

09:16
,
Rachel Clun

Messages of congratulations have flooded in from global figures following the private assembly that selected American Cardinal Robert Prevost as the upcoming Pope.

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, expressed his enthusiasm about maintaining collaboration between the UN and the Holy See to construct “a fair and sustainable planet for everyone.”

“Our world is in need of the strongest voices for peace, social justice, human dignity & compassion,” he said.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said the Pope’s first public remarks were a “powerful call” for peace and responsibility in a time of conflict and unrest.

“A spiritual heritage that adheres to the path set by Pope Francis, which Italy views with respect and hope,” she stated.

The British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer likewise expressed his congratulations and mentioned he was anticipating meeting with the Pope shortly.

The newly elected Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, expressed his “prayers and best wishes” to Pope Leo XIV.

“At this moment of worldwide challenges, let his leadership advance a mission of unity, empathy, and respect for every individual,” he stated.

View: When Leo XIV becomes Pope

09:01

Donald Trump has greeted the first-ever American Pope, even though Leo XIV had previously criticized him.

08:46
,
Rachel Clun

The U.S. President has extended his best regards to the newly appointed American Pope, despite Leo XIV having formerly criticized the president’s policies.

Robert Prevost had earlier posted criticisms on social media regarding the White House’s handling of migrant issues.

A harsh tweet he shared stated: “Nothing about separating children from their parents and imprisoning them in detention centers has even a hint of Christianity, Americanness, or moral justification. We are complicit as this occurs under our watch, and we all bear the burden of shame.”

Read the full report below:

Former American Pope Robert Prevost previously criticized Vance

Elder cardinal greets Leo XIV as ‘Pontiff of profound spirituality’

08:31
,
Rachel Clun

Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, has greeted the newly elected Pope.

“Leo XIV is a Pope of great spirituality. He will strengthen faith in God in this secularised world,” Re told Italian media.

The 91-year-old cardinal was too old to participate in the conclave, but he led the special pre-conclave Mass and also led the funeral for Pope Francis.

The gathering to choose Pope Leo XIV was brief, though not the quickest in history.

08:12
,
Rachel Clun

The papal election of Pope Leo XIV, which lasted for two days, was a brief conclave.

However, this isn’t inconsistent with other recent papal conclaves. Learn more about that history here:

The gathering to choose Pope Leo XIV was brief, though not the most concise in history.

Filipinos greet the inaugural papacy of an American pope.

07:54

The President of the Philippines has extended congratulations to Pope Leo following his election.

The Philippines stands as the biggest Roman Catholic country in Asia, and previously there was hope that after Pope Francis’s passing, he might be followed by a notable Filipino cardinal named Luis Antonio Tagle, who hails from the relaxed city of Imus located just below Manila.

Nevertheless, the election of Leo was met with approval, and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr expressed his hope that the new pope will “keep guiding the church toward aiding the underprivileged and less fortunate.”

“I wanted the candidate from the Philippines, but we should embrace this selection as it was part of God’s plan,” stated Alexandra Bonilla, a 20-year-old student, at a cathedral in Imus.

Brother recounts the instance of the pope’s name being revealed: ‘Niece started shrieking’

07:35
,
Shweta Sharma

As soon as white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel indicating that a new Pope had been elected, John Prevost switched on his TV in Illinois, dialed the newly appointed Pope’s niece, and together they marveled at the moment when his brother’s name was declared.

“He began yelling since it was his uncle, and I was momentarily struck by disbelief as this seemed impossible given how distant it was from our expectations,” Mr Prevost stated during an interview with The Associated Press on Thursday at his residence in New Lenox, Illinois.

He then expressed a profound feeling of pride because his brother, Cardinal Robert Prevost, became the 267th leader of the Catholic Church as its pontiff, thus making the Chicago-born missionary the inaugural pope from the USA.

“He mentioned it’s quite an honor; truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he stated. “However, he also believes it comes with significant responsibilities and foresees this leading to greater achievements. Yet, everyone will be keenly observing his actions.”

John Prevost characterized his brother as deeply worried about the welfare of the underprivileged and those without a platform to express themselves.

He said he expects him to be a “second Pope Francis.”

“He’s not going to be real far left and he’s not going to be real far right,” he added. “Kind of right down the middle.”

MAGA melts down over ‘WOKE MARXIST POPE’ who is a ‘Never Trumper liberal’

07:30
,
Rhian Lubin

It didn’t take long for right-wing media figures and
MAGA
provocateurs to cry out in rage over the election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV after it was revealed that he’d
publicly criticized Vice President JD Vance
And showed compassion towards immigrants and George Floyd.

Even though they feel national pride about the reality that Prevost was born in Chicago,
has become the first U.S. pope in history
Conservative commentators and supporters of Trump were outraged about the “Woke Marxist Pope” and lamented that he is even ” worse than Francis,” alluding to the former pope who was renowned for his progressive stance.

Even before the
“dark horse”
American
The cardinal was chosen as the 267th pope, with ex-Trump strategic advisor Steve Bannon.
warned
regarding Prevost’s opinions, stating that he wouldn’t be a good fit for the MAGA movement.

Justin Baragona

reports.

Make America Great Again faces meltdown over ‘MARXIST WOKE POPE’ labeled as a ‘Never Trumper liberal’

Pope’s brother says LeoXIV played wordle and watched Conclave to learn to ‘behave’

07:21
,
Shweta Sharma

The elder sibling, John Prevos, mentioned that he frequently engaged in Wordle sessions with his brother Robert Prevost and requested him to observe “Conclave.”

During an interview with NBC, the older brother of the recently elected pope mentioned that he enquired whether his brother had viewed the film “Conclave” prior to the commencement of the papal conclave, aiming for him to understand “how to act.”

He mentioned that he talked to his brother just prior to the Conclave.

“He understood how to act properly. It’s all about that sort of thing since I aimed to divert his attention, make him chuckle over something else, as this has become quite a significant duty,” Mr. Prevost stated.

He mentioned that they frequently enjoyed playing games like Wordle and Words with Friends together.

He mentioned it helps divert his attention from the realities of everyday life.

As the youngest of three siblings, Pope Leo often found himself offering guidance to his brothers.

He advised his brother to be himself, saying ‘Then he’s all set,’ as he shared some guidance about his campaign.

Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural address as the new pontiff proclaims ‘evil shall not triumph’ in its entirety.

07:03
,
Shweta Sharma

During his inaugural address from the main balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica,
Pope Leo XIV
spoke warmly about late
Pope Francis
and thanked the cardinals who had elected him after two days of voting.

Pope Leo XIV spoke in Italian and Spanish throughout his speech. The following is the full first translated speech of Pope Leo XIV:

‘Evil will not prevail’ – Pope Leo XIV’s first speech in full

The Pope will conduct his initial Mass as the newly appointed head of the Catholic Church.

06:49
,
Shweta Sharma

Pope Leo XIV will celebrate his first Mass as the leader of the Catholic Church after making history as the first American-born pontiff.

Pope Leo
will celebrate the Mass alongside cardinals in the Sistine Chapel at 11 am (0900 GMT) on Friday. During this event, he will deliver his inaugural homily as pope and it will be broadcasted live.

He will offer his inaugural Sunday midday blessing from the loggia at St. Peter’s and meet with members of the press during a gathering scheduled for Monday in the Vatican auditorium, according to Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni.

Watch: Cardinals commemorated the selection of Pope Leo XIV in a unique Conclave video

06:30
,
Rhian Lubin

Make America Great Again faces meltdown over ‘MARXIST WOKE POPE’ labeled as a ‘Never Trumper liberal’

06:04
,
Shweta Sharma

It wasn’t long before right-wing media personalities and
MAGA
instigators to scream with anger following the election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV upon learning that he had
publicly criticized Vice President JD Vance
And showed compassion for immigrants and George Floyd.

Even though they feel national pride about the reality that Prevost was born in Chicago,
Has become the first U.S. pontiff in history.
Conservative commentators and supporters of Trump were outraged about the “WOKE MARXIST POPE” and lamented that he is even ” worse than Francis,” alluding to the former pope who was recognized for his liberal stance.

Even before the
“dark horse”
American
cardinal was elected the 267th pope, former Trump chief strategist Steve Bannon
warned
regarding Prevost’s opinions, suggesting he wouldn’t be a good fit for the MAGA movement.

Justin Baragona

reports.

Make America Great Again faces meltdown over ‘MARXIST WOKE POPE’ who is labeled as a ‘Never Trumper liberal.’

China’s Catholic body extends congratulations to Pope Leo X.

05:58
,
Shweta Sharma

The Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association along with the Bishops’ Conference of the Catholic Church in China extended their congratulations to recently chosen Pope Leo XIV, as per reports from the state-run Xinhua News Agency on Friday.

China reportedly has approximately 12 million Catholics, and his predecessor had placed more emphasis on fostering relationships with both China’s Catholic community and Chinese-speaking Catholics throughout Asia.

The eulogy at his funeral ended with a prayer recited in Mandarin, the sole prayer delivered in an Asian tongue during the service.

The relationship between the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association (CCPA) and the Bishops’ Conference of the Catholic Church in China (BCCCC) with the Holy See has been tense because they operate independently of papal authority.

Nevertheless, the 2018 pact between China and the Holy See signaled a slight easing of relations, giving the Pope some say over potential bishops suggested by Chinese officials. Nonetheless, disagreements remain; in 2023, China installed Bishop Joseph Shen Bin into the Shanghai diocese without seeking consent from the Vatican.