(Des Moines, IA) -- The newly elected Pope has roots in the American Midwest. Pope Leo XIV, originally from Chicago, has made history as the first pope from the United States.
“One of our own was elected — many of us thought we’d never see it in our lifetime,” said Catholic Bishop William Joenson of Des Moines. He was meeting with other Catholic leaders at St. Patrick’s in Council Bluffs when the announcement was made.
Born Robert Prevost, Pope Leo XIV grew up on the south side of Chicago. He spent many years as a missionary in Peru and most recently held a high-ranking position at the Vatican.
Many are now wondering what direction Pope Leo XIV will take the Catholic Church, and whether he will lean more conservative or liberal in his leadership.
“I think he’s a moderate — someone who envisions a church for all people,” Bishop Joenson said. “The cardinals came together so quickly. They all felt comfortable with him, could identify with him, and could trust him.”
Bishop Joenson added that he hopes Pope Leo XIV will bring balance and peace on a geopolitical scale.
While Pope Leo is the first pontiff from the United States, he is not the first from the Americas. His predecessor, Pope Francis, hailed from South America.