Denver Catholics react to election of first pope from the US
DENVER (KDVR) — For the first time in history, the leader of the Catholic Church is from the United States.
At Regis University, a Jesuit school in Denver, students and faculty reflected on the election of Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago.
Robert Prevost elected the first American pope in history, will take the name Leo XIV
'I'm truly surprised, I did not expect to have an American Pope in my lifetime,' said Kari Kloos, interim vice president for mission at Regis University.
'I am very pleasantly surprised and also relieved,' said Alexandra Walker, a senior at Regis.
Pope Leo XIV is being called a 'pope for the modern world.' He speaks several languages and is known for emphasizing compassion and connection.
'I found it really heartwarming and emotional that in his speech, he switched from Italian to Spanish,' Walker said.
'He certainly seems to be in tune with Francis as far as care for migrants, care for the earth, care for how we accompany people,' Kloos said.
School leaders at Regis say the pope's American background, paired with his global experience, could usher in a new era for the Church.
'I like that he is American with a truly global set of experiences and interests,' Kloos said.
Local Catholics pray for, celebrate first US-born pope in history
'From my standpoint, I would want maybe some more liberal points of view,' Walker said.
Many Catholics in Colorado say they're hopeful this pope can bridge divides and bring new energy to the faith.
'I think what our world needs right now, especially what us young Catholics want right now, someone who can bring us back hope, and build bridges,' Walker said.
'I think they always hope for leaders who see them and understand them, and care about the challenges they face, who help them find hope, who are willing to listen,' Kloos said.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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