Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, recently shared his thoughts on the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, commenting on how his selection fits into the current political landscape, especially when considering the challenges faced by the Trump administration. Cupich suggested that Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, will play a key role in advancing political agendas that focus on social justice, especially immigration. According to Cupich, Pope Leo XIV has a deep understanding of human suffering, having witnessed firsthand the struggles of people seeking better lives. He also highlighted the pope's knowledge of the rising sea levels in Oceania, which are threatening the lives of many islanders, and the drug trade in Central and South America, which is fueled by weapons from the United States. Pope Leo XIV, Cupich noted, will likely call for the reform of the U.S. immigration system, an issue that the U.S. bishops have been advocating for as well.
Pope Leo XIV made history this past Thursday when he became the first American pope. Born in Chicago, Leo XIV spent about two decades living in Peru before being selected by the late Pope Francis to serve in the Vatican. His journey to the papacy is remarkable, as it bridges both his American roots and his global perspective. Pope Leo XIV is expected to address difficult questions facing the church during his papacy, including navigating the complicated relationship between the church and politics under President Donald Trump.
During his time at Villanova University, Pope Leo XIV formed a strong connection to both the United States and the broader global community. Villanova President Rev. Peter Donohue described Leo XIV as embodying both an American spirit and a global vision. “He’s somebody who truly represents both the United States and the world,” Donohue said. The idea of a pope with such a broad worldview is an exciting development, especially as the world faces increasing challenges on both political and humanitarian fronts.
In an interview with Martha Raddatz, Cupich discussed the pope's remarks on the global situation, specifically his comments on the suffering of the Ukrainian people and the situation in Gaza. These statements reflect a deep empathy and concern for the world’s most vulnerable. Cupich noted that Pope Leo XIV had embraced Pope Francis’ message that we are living in a world war “piecemeal,” with conflicts emerging in various parts of the globe. He sees his role as being a voice for peace, and from the very moment of his election, Pope Leo XIV expressed his commitment to standing against war and conflict. According to Cupich, the fact that 133 cardinals from 71 different countries could come together to make a decision within 24 hours is a symbol of unity, which he hopes the rest of the world can learn from.
Cupich was also asked by Raddatz about what it means for an American to be pope, particularly considering Pope Leo XIV’s time living in Peru and his global outlook. Cupich pointed out that Pope Leo XIV is not only an American but also holds Peruvian citizenship, carrying a Peruvian passport. This dual identity is significant, as it shows his ability to navigate both American and international perspectives. Cupich hopes that as pope, Leo XIV will use his platform to reintroduce the church’s long-standing commitment to social justice, a message that Pope Francis championed during his papacy. However, Cupich believes that Pope Leo XIV will bring a unique American voice to this global mission, something that could have a powerful impact going forward.
While Pope Leo XIV’s election brings a sense of hope for social justice, it also raises questions about how he will handle the dark legacy of the Catholic Church, particularly in relation to the sexual abuse scandal that has plagued the institution. In response to a letter from the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, which raised concerns about how Prevost, before becoming pope, handled abuse allegations, Cupich emphasized Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to addressing these issues. Cupich, who has had personal discussions with Pope Leo XIV, expressed confidence in the pope’s ability to navigate this sensitive issue. He pointed to the pope’s track record of meeting with victims, cooperating with authorities, and conducting investigations. “He cares deeply about this issue,” Cupich stated, reaffirming that Leo XIV is committed to the norms established by Pope Francis in tackling the crisis.
Rev. Peter Donohue also weighed in on the significance of having an American pope. For many American Catholics, the idea of a pope hailing from the United States seemed like an impossible dream. Historically, the church was hesitant to embrace the idea of an American pope, given the country’s power and influence. Yet, Donohue explained that Pope Leo XIV’s American roots are undeniable. A native of Chicago, Leo XIV holds a deep love for his hometown, where his family still resides. Despite this, most of his life has been spent outside of the United States, particularly in Peru and Rome, where he has shaped his international perspective. Donohue noted that while Pope Leo XIV grew up in America, much of his life and work after his ordination have been global in nature, giving him a unique worldview.
The election of Pope Leo XIV marks a significant moment in both the history of the Catholic Church and the broader geopolitical landscape. His background, straddling both American and global experiences, positions him as a leader who can speak to diverse audiences, offering both a message of hope and a challenge to address the world’s most pressing issues. From his commitment to immigration reform and social justice to his determination to confront the church’s past, Pope Leo XIV is poised to shape the future of the Catholic Church in ways that resonate far beyond Vatican walls. His election is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of the changing dynamics within the church, one that is increasingly attuned to the needs of the world. As the first American pope, he brings a unique voice to the global conversation, one that blends American ideals with a deeply rooted commitment to international solidarity and compassion.
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