Pope Leo XIV as Cardinal Robert F. Prevost has gone where no one has gone before. Today he’s the first American pontiff of the Catholic Church. He was elected in an unusual Vatican conclave on May 8, 2025. Just a couple hours after, the then-Cardinal Bergoglio stepped out on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the faithful. His election comes at a time when the world is experiencing renewed attacks on workers’ rights. These challenges are a greater reality because of the remarkable and rapid developments in artificial intelligence.
The newly elected pope chose his name in honor of Pope Leo XIII, who served from 1878 and was renowned for his advocacy of social justice and workers’ rights. Pope Leo XIII’s teachings laid the foundation for the Church’s engagement with labor issues, and Pope Leo XIV intends to build on this legacy.
In his first public address, Pope Leo articulated the pressing needs of modern society, stating that the Church must respond to “another industrial revolution and to developments in the field of artificial intelligence that pose new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice and labor.”
As Pope Leo enters his new role, he makes a staunch effort to remain true to the mission of his forerunner. Pope Francis originally provided that prophetic leadership for 12 years, and Leo is committed to extending that legacy. Pope Francis, the first pontiff from the Americas, has been actively resisted by right-wing cardinals. They criticize his progressive stance on issues such as LGBT rights and women’s leadership in the Church.
Pope Leo’s election signals a continuation of Pope Francis’ focus on social justice, emphasizing that the Church’s mission remains relevant in addressing contemporary ethical dilemmas.
In his initial meeting with the cardinals since taking office, Pope Leo provided insights into his vision for leadership and priorities. He expressed admiration for Pope Francis, stating, “It has been clearly seen in the example of so many of my predecessors, and most recently by Pope Francis himself, with his example of complete dedication to service and to sober simplicity of life.”
He seeks to lead the Church into the depths of complicated social questions while maintaining a fidelity to their Christian heritage. As he embarks on this new chapter for the Catholic Church, many look forward to his initiatives focusing on workers’ rights and the challenges posed by technological advancements.
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