Pope Leo XIV's election brings forth a wave of patriotic sentiments and a mix of surprise and hope among Americans after his announcement on May 8, 2025.
First American Pope Leo XIV: A Historic Revelation
First American Pope Leo XIV: A Historic Revelation
Catholics and non-Catholics across the U.S. celebrate the election of Chicago's own Leo XIV as the first American pope.
The announcement that Cardinal Leo XIV, born in Chicago, would become the first American pope has taken the country by storm, igniting excitement among both Catholics and non-Catholics alike. The news reverberated from Chicago to cities far beyond as many Americans expressed a profound sense of pride for this historic moment.
Alex Freeman, a 33-year-old event planner from Atlanta who is rooted in Baptist traditions but occasionally attends Catholic services, is among those sensing a cultural shift. "To have the first American pope is something new and something fresh," she noted, emphasizing its significance in the context of impending celebrations of American independence.
In Chicago, this milestone is particularly jubilant as residents celebrate their connection to the new pope. Rev. William Lego, a close companion of Leo XIV from their days in seminary, marveled at the selection, calling it serendipitous while expressively stunned. Similarly, political commentator David Axelrod reacted on social media with a jovial enthusiasm: “Holy smokes!! An American pope! From Chicago!!”
Contrastingly, not all Americans were familiar with Leo XIV before the announcement. Danielle Charles, an insurance professional from San Antonio, admitted she had not heard of him until today. In Queens, retired accountant Rosario Gonzales, while indifferent to the new pope's nationality, voiced her hope that Leo XIV would continue the compassionate outreach exemplified by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
As the United States commemorates its 250 years of independence, many citizens await the wave of influence an American pope may yield—potentially mending international relationships strained under the previous administration.
Jack Healy serves as a national correspondent focusing on the dynamic politics of the Southwest. Julie Bosman is the Chicago bureau chief for The Times, and Kate Selig is a member of the 2024-25 Times Fellowship class, nurturing early-career journalists.
