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We found out this morning that Cardinal Robert Prevost, a little-known missionary from Chicago, had been elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church. He's taken the name Pope Leo XIV and it's expected that his orientation as pontiff will be somewhat similar to that of Pope Francis.
Here are some key moments from the day:
We found out this morning that Cardinal Robert Prevost, a little-known missionary from Chicago, had been elected as the new leader of the Catholic Church. He's taken the name Pope Leo XIV and it's expected that his orientation as pontiff will be somewhat similar to that of Pope Francis.
Here are some key moments from the day:
- Pope Leo XIV addressed a somewhat confused crowd on the central balcony of St Peter's Basilica — many of whom did not know his name. In his speech, Leo spoke in Spanish and Italian and thanked his predecessor.
- US President Donald Trump said Leo's appointment as the first North American pontiff was a "great honour for our country". However, the MAGA movement has criticised his appointment after unverified posts on X surfaced, showing Leo had previously criticised the policies and opinions of both Trump and US Vice President JD Vance.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the new pope had arrived at an "important time" for the Catholic church and extended an invite for him to visit Australia in 2028.
- Pope Leo XIV is considered to be somewhat progressive. However, he has previously stated his opposition to women being ordained as priests. A clerical abuse advocacy group also expressed "grave concern" over his election, saying he had previously failed to take action against suspected predatory priests.
