The Catholic Church has a new leader. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was elected Pope on May 8, 2024. He chose the name Pope Leo XIV. This makes him the first American to hold the position.
A Life of Service
Pope Leo XIV was born in Chicago, Illinois. He’s known for his work with communities on the margins. For years, he helped people in Peru, where he was also made archbishop. The Peruvian government even gave him citizenship.
In Peru, Pope Leo XIV built bridges between local cultures and the Church. He also pushed for the rights of overlooked groups. People remember him for this work.
The Significance of “Leo”
Choosing a new name is a centuries-old tradition for popes. It started in the 6th century. The name often reflects a pope’s mission or role model.
Pope Leo XIV’s name is linked to previous popes. Two stand out – Pope Leo I and Pope Leo XIII. Pope Leo I, also known as St. Leo the Great, was a peacemaker. He served from 440 to 461 AD.
Pope Leo XIII focused on social justice. His letter “Rerum Novarum” talked about workers’ rights and economic fairness. It showed the Church’s role in modern society.
By choosing “Leo,” Pope Leo XIV may be signaling his commitment to peace and social justice.
A Common Papal Name
“Leo” is one of the most used papal names. Thirteen popes have chosen it. The most popular name is “John,” used 23 times. The last Pope John was Pope John XXIII in 1958. He was made a saint in 2014 by Pope Francis.