For the first time in history, an American has been elected by the conclave as Pope. On Thursday, March 8, Robert Francis Prevost, 69, has elected the new pontiff taking the name Pope Leo XIV.
And already, the Christian conservatives don’t like him. But I was happy to know that he’s from Chicago and also born on Sept. 14, 1955. A good 23 years later to the day, I was born on the same date. So, along with Sam Neill (who I think is a fine underrated actor), I also share the birthday with the leader of a huge religious sect.
I’m surprised the man who just said he could be Pope made a post on his social media: “It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country.” He also said that he looks forward to meeting with Pope Leo XIV calling it a “very meaningful moment.”
Now, obviously, he didn’t write this. One, it’s not in all caps. Two, it’s actually coherent. And three, it actually sounds like something a country leader would say when an event like this would happen. Usually, his posts come off as rants and rave of a drunken uncle who just saw a daytime talk show in which parents say they’re glad their child came out as non-binary and doesn’t want to get married nor have kids.
Pope Leo XIV is the 267th Bishop of Rome and he shares a lot of ideals along with his predecessor, Pope Francis. Both are only the two Popes to be elected from the Americas. Even though he was born in America near a major U.S. city, Pope Leo XIV has spent a good portion of his life in other parts of the world, most notably Peru.
It’s very well known that he isn’t much of a fan of the current administration, which has led to a lot of backlash on the right within hours of his role being made public. I really hadn’t had much time to do a thorough research on Pope Leo XIV. I just know that for many people of the Catholic faith and religion, it is a very important day.
It was almost the same feeling back in 2013 when Pope Francis was elected. A lot of people on the right didn’t want him in office, mainly because they see the Pope as a religious theocratic authoritarian rather than as a servant of Jesus Christ trying to carry on his teachings. Even though I’m not religious, I understand the significance of having a religious leader who cares about everyone, not just those that will benefit him.
What do you think? Please comment.
Zane Says 