Latest news with #American-Peruvian
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
'Only informed individuals can make free choices'
Pope Leo XIV arrives on the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica for the first time after being elected to take over from the late Pope Francis on Thursday, May 8. Pope Leo is the first pope from the United States. It's been over a week since the emergence of the new pope after that highly anticipated voting in that historic chapel in Rome and the American-Peruvian has taken the late Pope Francis's baton and is already running at speed with it and in the same trajectory. There were some concerns last week when the billions of us who'd been watching closely the colour of the smoke coming out of the Sistine Chapel learned that the new pontiff was 'an American'. But soon the 'Make America Great Again' fears were allayed as Pope Leo XIV turned out to be a great choice, another 'people's pope' just like his predecessor. Those of us who are for peace, democracy and justice in the world can all repeat with glee after the senior cardinal who made the announcement: Habemus papam – meaning 'we have a pope'. Indeed, we have a pope, a great and brave leader prepared to tackle the many and varied challenges facing this world. I was especially impressed by his frank and bold interaction with members of the media on Monday, just days after his election. Pope Leo didn't just come out boldly to pledge his support for media freedom and the much-needed protection of media practitioners around the world but seems intent on following his words with practical action. He seems well-informed. The pontiff reminded us of the 567 media professionals currently imprisoned around the world 'for seeking to report the truth' and appealed to everyone to help safeguard the 'precious gift of free speech and of the press' where it still exists. Of course, by 'media professionals' the Holy Father was referring not to the purveyors of misinformation, disinformation, 'fake news' and so on that is polluting 'the media'. This is not to say that there hasn't been challenges between the media and the Holy See, but it's good for its new leader to come out right from the start to make clear where he stands on the matter. I can't agree with him more in saying 'only informed individuals can make free choices' – especially during general elections.
Business Insider
08-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Insider
American cardinal Robert Francis Prevost elected as Pope Leo XIV
In a historic first, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American-Peruvian cleric, was elected the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. The announcement was made today in the Vatican following the conclusion of the conclave. He will be called Pope Leo XIV, making him the first American to hold this papal office. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of American and Peruvian heritage has been elected as the 267th Pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This historic moment marks the first instance of an American ascending to the papal office. His papacy follows the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, with millions mourning the previous pontiff's departure. Prevost's election came just under two weeks after the death of Pope Francis, who died on April 21 from complications of a stroke. Pope Francis was buried in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. Over 400,000 mourners attended the farewell ceremony on April 26. Pope Leo XIV, born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, brings a distinctive global perspective to the papacy. Although he was born in the United States, he spent many years in Peru, which, along with his work in the Catholic Church, earned him a reputation as a bridge-builder between cultures. A former Prior General of the Augustinian Order and head of the Dicastery for Bishops, he was created a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023. At the time, he was considered a close ally of the late pontiff and a voice of continuity on important reforms. He is also known for advocating for more inclusive practices within the Church, including a compassionate stance on divorce and same-sex blessing—positions consistent with Pope Francis's legacy of gradual reforms. The conclave began on May 7 and made a decision on the second day. According to reports, the Prevost was reportedly chosen as a compromise candidate. While some initially questioned his short tenure as cardinal, his international experience and moderate theological views appear to have carried the day. A message of peace and unity from the new Pope In his first address from the Vatican balcony, Pope Leo XIV delivered a message of unity and hope: "May this message of peace penetrate your hearts, reach your families, and all people, wherever they are." He also paid tribute to Pope Francis and urged the faithful to "move forward without fear, united, hand in hand with God and with one another." What It Means for the Church and the World With more than 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide, including growing communities in Africa and Latin America, the election of Pope Leo XIV could mark a renewed interest in the Global South. His leadership comes at a time when the Church is facing internal debates over doctrine, inclusion, and modern relevance.
