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8h ago

Pope Leo XIV Delivers Vision for Unity and Reform in First Address

Robert Francis Prevost, the first US-born pope, signals continuity with Pope Francis's reforms while facing calls for accountability on abuse allegations.

Robert Prevost, left, and his brothers John and Louis pose for a photo with their mother in this undated photo.
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John Prevost points to an old photo of his brothers, including the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost, left, during an interview with the Associated Press on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in New Lennox, Ill. (AP Photo/Obed Lamy)

Overview

  • Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first US-born pontiff in the Catholic Church's history.
  • In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized unity, dialogue, and a commitment to continuing Pope Francis's synodal reforms, including the extended Synod on Synodality through 2028.
  • Prevost's Augustinian background and leadership roles in Peru and the Vatican shaped his reputation as a reform-minded yet tradition-conscious leader.
  • The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) has reiterated allegations of abuse cover-up against Prevost, which he has denied, raising questions about the Church's accountability efforts.
  • The new pope’s choice of the name Leo XIV connects him to reformist predecessors and signals a focus on addressing social inequalities and modern challenges within the Church.