The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American to hold the papacy, has created waves of excitement and anticipation within the Catholic community, particularly in the D.C. metropolitan area. For many, the news was both surprising and a source of immense pride, marking a historic moment for both the Church and the United States.
At the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, parishioners gathered to reflect on the significance of the new pope’s election. Many expressed their thoughts about how the appointment of Robert Prevost, a Chicago native, represents a pivotal moment for the global Church.
“My manager asked me, ‘Hey, do you think we’ll get an American pope anytime soon?’ I was like, no, I don’t think so,” said Austin Sarabia. “I think that America’s influence is too powerful that they probably won’t ever have that overlap.”
Despite the surprise of the announcement, Sarabia, along with many others, felt optimistic about the new leader’s potential. “He seems well-read, a solid theologian,” Sarabia continued. “He seems like he would be between Benedict and Francis. I think that would be a positive thing for the Church.”
Many Catholics in the area are particularly excited about the pope’s American roots, finding his leadership more relatable. “I’m really excited he’s from Chicago,” said Aiden Camba. “My dad’s a huge Bears fan, and I think it’s cool he was so close to Pope Francis, like his second-in-command.”
As Pope Leo XIV celebrates his first Mass, the focus is not just on his background, but also on the hope for meaningful changes within the Church. “What I want most is clarity,” Sarabia remarked. “He speaks English, so I think that could help connect with people here in a new way.”
There is also a desire for growth and unity within the Catholic community. “I just want to see the Catholic community grow,” said another local parishioner.
As the 267th pope in Catholic history, Pope Leo XIV brings a sense of excitement and hope to both American Catholics and the global Church as he ushers in a new chapter in its leadership.
