Context:

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, was elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church following a two-day conclave in Vatican City, becoming the first American pontiff and the 267th occupant of the throne of St. Peter. He is set to give his first Sunday blessing and address in St Peter's Square, where he will recite the Regina Caeli prayer and deliver reflections after a mass, marking his initial public appearance since his election. Ahead of his formal inauguration on May 18, he prayed at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, and highlighted the importance of missionary work, care for the marginalized, and the church's role in the modern world, including issues like artificial intelligence and social justice. Known for his moderate stance, Pope Leo has pledged to continue the legacy of his predecessor, Francis, sharing similar views on migrants, the poor, and the environment. His first speech emphasized unity and peace, aiming to guide the global Catholic community of 1.4 billion people in a shared search for justice and harmony.

Dive Deeper:

• Pope Leo XIV was elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church after a two-day conclave, making him the first American to hold the position and the second pontiff from the Americas, following Pope Francis of Argentina.

• Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, he has Peruvian nationality due to his extensive missionary work and service as an archbishop in Peru, highlighting his diverse background and commitment to the global Catholic community.

• Ahead of his inauguration, Pope Leo visited a shrine outside Rome and prayed at the tomb of his predecessor, Pope Francis, indicating his respect and commitment to continuing the legacy of the late pontiff.

• In his first public address, he plans to recite the Regina Caeli prayer in St Peter's Square, marking his debut appearance since his election, where he will also reflect on important themes such as peace and justice.

• Pope Leo has expressed his intention to continue the church's focus on social issues, emphasizing missionary work, care for the marginalized, and the church's relevance in addressing contemporary challenges like artificial intelligence.

• Known for his moderate views, Pope Leo is seen as a figure of continuity and unity, committed to addressing global issues such as migration, poverty, and environmental concerns, resonating with the values of his predecessor.

• His upcoming inauguration mass will be attended by numerous heads of state and dignitaries, where he will further elaborate on his vision for the church and its role in defending human dignity and justice in the modern world.