The new Pope Leo XIV, elected this Thursday as the 267th Pontiff of the Catholic Church, included a message in Spanish during his first public appearance as Supreme Pontiff.
From the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, Leo XIV, whose secular name is Robert Francis Prevost, addressed the gathered faithful and the millions of people following the event through media and digital platforms.
"A greeting to all, and particularly to my beloved diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, where a faithful community has supported its bishop, shared its faith, and given so much to continue being the Church of Jesus Christ," said the Pontiff, who also has Peruvian nationality.
The message in Spanish was received with enthusiasm by Spanish-speaking parishioners, who saw in this gesture a sign of closeness and recognition of the Spanish-speaking Catholic community, one of the largest and most dynamic within the Church.
In addition, he highlighted the legacy of his predecessor, Francisco, to whom he expressed gratitude, and asserted that "God loves us all unconditionally," reported the agency EFE.
"We still hear in our ears that faint, yet always brave voice of Pope Francis blessing in Rome," he remarked.
At 69 years old, Prevost, a U.S. citizen, is seen as an opportunity at this moment due to President Donald Trump in the White House, which is interpreted as a stance from the Church regarding the global political landscape, seeking to establish a dialogue with Washington.
In that regard, the U.S. president reacted emotionally to the election of the 133 cardinals in the Vatican. “What excitement, and what a great honor for our country. I hope to meet Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very important moment!" he wrote on his social media platform Truth Social.
Prevost is a member of the Order of Augustinians, a religious community that follows the Rule of St. Augustine, focused on communal life, prayer, and service to those in need.
His ascent in the Catholic hierarchy was solidified when he was appointed prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the most influential departments of the Roman Curia.
From that position, he participated in the selection and appointment of bishops around the world, demonstrating a rigorous administrative style and a strong commitment to social evangelization.
Numerous international leaders have sent messages wishing success in the papacy to León XIV.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pope Leo XIV and His Election
Who is the new Pope Leo XIV?
The new Pope Leo XIV is Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American cardinal who has been elected as the 267th Pontiff of the Catholic Church. He is the first Pope born in the United States and also holds Peruvian citizenship due to his long tenure in Peru, where he has held significant pastoral roles.
Why did Pope Leo XIV deliver a message in Spanish during his first appearance?
Pope Leo XIV included a message in Spanish to greet his diocese of Chiclayo in Peru. This gesture was a demonstration of closeness and recognition to the Spanish-speaking Catholic community, one of the largest and most dynamic within the Church.
What international reactions has the election of Pope Leo XIV provoked?
The election of Pope Leo XIV has generated excitement in the United States, with President Donald Trump expressing his enthusiasm and desire to meet him. Additionally, international leaders have sent congratulatory messages, viewing the appointment as an opportunity for the Church in the current global political context.
What is the significance of the Augustinian order to which Pope Leo XIV belongs?
Pope Leo XIV is a member of the Order of Augustine, a religious community that follows the Rule of Saint Augustine, focused on communal life, prayer, and serving those in need. His membership in this order reinforces his commitment to social evangelization and serving others.
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