The Inauguration of Pope Leo XIV: A New Era for the Vatican
Pope Leo XIV marked a historic moment in the Vatican as he celebrated his first mass in the Sistine Chapel alongside the cardinals who elected him. The media in Italy was abuzz with the news of Robert Prevost, a Chicago-born missionary, becoming the first North American pontiff.
Headlines in leading newspapers like Corriere Della Sera and La Repubblica hailed the new pontiff as “The American Pope.” The attention to detail was evident as Prevost emerged wearing a traditional burgundy stole with gold embroidery, a departure from his predecessor Francis’ all-white vestments.
Corriere della Sera described Leo XIV as “decidedly less pop” in form compared to Francis but hinted at the potential for a shift in substance in the future.
Reports in Italian media highlighted Leo XIV’s love for tennis, swimming in Lake Michigan, and even a fondness for fried chicken. The pontiff’s diverse interests set him apart from his predecessors.
There was a sense of prophecy in Italian director Paolo Sorrentino’s 2016 TV series “The Young Pope,” which depicted the election of an American pontiff. Sorrentino’s vision of a conservative Pope played by Jude Law offered a contrasting view to Francis’ leadership.
As Leo XIV takes the helm, there is anticipation of how he will shape the future of the Church. Prevost’s progressive background as a missionary in Peru and his role in spearheading reforms within the Vatican suggest a continuation of Francis’ vision for change.
While Prevost has been instrumental in bringing about reforms like adding women to key committees, there are differences in his views compared to Francis. His stance on LGBTQ+ issues, as highlighted by The New York Times, indicates a more conservative approach.
