New Pope Elected
By: Joni Boyd
The election of Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025, marks the first time a North American has ascended to the papacy, a development both unexpected and deeply symbolic for the global Catholic community.
The announcement came after the fourth round of voting by the conclave, as white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling to those gathered in St Peter’s Square that a new pope had been chosen.
Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the protodeacon, delivered the traditional “Habemus Papam” declaration, introducing Pope Leo XIV to the world.
Who is Pope Leo XIV?
At 69, Pope Leo XIV brings a wealth of pastoral and administrative experience to the role.
Ordained as an Augustinian priest, he spent years in missionary work in Peru, eventually becoming a bishop there.
His dual citizenship and deep ties to Latin America resonate with the Church’s growing demographic shift toward the Global South.
In his first address, delivered in both Italian and Spanish, Pope Leo XIV emphasised themes of peace, unity, and inclusivity.
He paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, and called for a Church that listens and walks together—a nod to the synodal path initiated by Francis.
Why is he called Leo XIV?
The choice of the name Leo XIV is noteworthy.
It is a nod to Pope Leo XIII, known for his writings of “Rerum Novarum” — or “Capital and Labour” — which addressed the rights and conditions of workers.
This connection suggests a continued focus on social justice and the dignity of labour, aligning with the Church’s longstanding commitment to the marginalised.
What kind of Pope will he be?
Pope Leo XIV’s election comes at a time of significant challenges for the Church, including internal divisions, calls for reform, and a need to re-engage with the faithful in increasingly secular societies.
His background suggests a pontificate that will seek to bridge divides, uphold tradition while embracing necessary change, and renew the Church’s mission in the modern world.
As the Catholic Church embarks on this new chapter, Christians are being asked to pray for Pope Leo XIV, that he may lead with wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith, that his papacy would be a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring presence of the Holy Spirit guiding the Church through the ages.
“Very much of the line of Pope Francis”
Associate Professor Joel Hodge, national head of the School of Theology at the Australian Catholic Church University, joined Hope Breakfast to discuss the historic election of Pope Leo XIV.
“He’s had a very interesting history, really risen through the ranks very quickly,” Professor Hodge said.
“He can bring his knowledge of the Vatican already to that because there are various issues the Church needs to confront, reforms that it needs to make.
“The sexual abuse crisis, of course, is something that’s ongoing and the importance of safeguarding, also investigating crime.
“He was signalling in his first speech that he was very much of the line of Pope Francis… accompanying people, being with people, loving them, seeking to be alongside them.
“We also saw him wear those traditional vestments as well… the red being of blood… being ready to sacrifice oneself.”
Professor Hodge anticipates Pope Leo XIV will face challenges like internal reform and navigating ideological divides within the Church, while maintaining traditions and addressing global issues.
Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.
Feature image: Canva
About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.
