On Friday, May 10, 2025, major newspapers across the globe captured the monumental election of Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, as the first North American pope, celebrating his American roots and religious significance.
Pope Leo XIV: A New American Pope Stirs Global Headlines
Pope Leo XIV: A New American Pope Stirs Global Headlines
The election of Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV signifies a historical moment celebrated worldwide.
In an impressive global roundup, the coverage varied from playful headlines to solemn proclamations, reflecting the mood of a significant turning point in the Roman Catholic Church. Thousands crowded in St. Peter's Square to witness Cardinal Dominique Mamberti’s announcement, where he joyously proclaimed, “Habemus papam,” meaning "We have a pope."
Media outlets quickly highlighted the pope's Chicago origins. American newspapers particularly emphasized his hometown, with the Chicago Tribune claiming “Chicago’s pope” and the Chicago Sun-Times opting for the cheeky “DA POPE!” mirroring local sports culture.
Internationally, reactions varied widely, from the Irish Daily Mirror’s headline “Let U.S. Pray” to Le Temps’ printed echo of Mamberti’s announcement, “HabemUS Papam.” The Peruvian press celebrated the new pope’s past as a bishop in Peru, with some claiming him as their own, despite his dual citizenship. Meanwhile, Chilean newspaper El Mercurio humorously encompassed both nationalities with a dual-label headline.
Several publications favored a more pious approach, focusing solely on the new papal name, with prominent headlines like “Leo” appearing in various languages. Others echoed the pope's first words to the public, signaling his message of peace and unity.
As the world responds to the significance of Pope Leo XIV, the interplay between regional identities and this monumental papal election sets the stage for a transformative era in the Catholic Church.
Media outlets quickly highlighted the pope's Chicago origins. American newspapers particularly emphasized his hometown, with the Chicago Tribune claiming “Chicago’s pope” and the Chicago Sun-Times opting for the cheeky “DA POPE!” mirroring local sports culture.
Internationally, reactions varied widely, from the Irish Daily Mirror’s headline “Let U.S. Pray” to Le Temps’ printed echo of Mamberti’s announcement, “HabemUS Papam.” The Peruvian press celebrated the new pope’s past as a bishop in Peru, with some claiming him as their own, despite his dual citizenship. Meanwhile, Chilean newspaper El Mercurio humorously encompassed both nationalities with a dual-label headline.
Several publications favored a more pious approach, focusing solely on the new papal name, with prominent headlines like “Leo” appearing in various languages. Others echoed the pope's first words to the public, signaling his message of peace and unity.
As the world responds to the significance of Pope Leo XIV, the interplay between regional identities and this monumental papal election sets the stage for a transformative era in the Catholic Church.
