Sunday, May 18, 2025
Sunday Reflection: Pope Leo XIV
I'm not Catholic, but it still matters to me that there is a new Pope, an American. In part, it is because I work at a Catholic school, but also because the Pope has influence beyond the borders of his nation-- kind of the way that the President of the US can matter to people in other countries.
He's from Chicago. He devoted his life to working among the poor. He gained the confidence and support of Pope Francis. His statements so far have been about important moral imperatives. And he was able to win the support of a Conclave with opposing forces at work.
It has always seemed odd to me that the Catholic Church centered itself in Rome, give the role of the Romans in oppressing Jews (including Jesus) and in the death of Jesus himself. But Rome confers power, and power is a part of the Church.
The question remains: over time, how will Leo XIV use that power?
