On May 8, 2025, the conclave ended with the election of Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old Augustinian religious, becoming the first pope from the United States. But above all, his missionary journey in Peru, where he lived for more than twenty years, shaped his ministry. Also holding Peruvian nationality, he knows well the realities of the Church in Latin America. A former superior general of the Augustinians, trained in mathematics and canon law, he also served as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Rome. By choosing the name Leo XIV, he placed himself in the line of Leo XIII and the encyclical Rerum Novarum, a foundational text of Catholic social teaching.
On the evening of his election, from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, the new pope spoke a word that would become the guiding thread of his pontificate: "Peace." A peace he described as "disarmed and disarming," an expression echoed in his speeches and diplomatic initiatives. The next day, during Mass in the Sistine Chapel, he gave another spiritual direction: "Disappear so that Christ may remain." This sober phrase reveals a pastoral style centered on Christ, rather than on the person of the pope.
Internal Challenges of the Church
But this first year has especially highlighted the tensions running through the Church. Leo XIV inherits an institution marked by doctrinal, liturgical, and ecclesiological divisions. The German synodal path, for example, continues to raise concerns in Rome. Several German leaders advocate major reforms regarding Church governance, creating friction with the Roman Curia.
Furthermore, the issue of liturgy remains a sensitive topic. Some traditionalist groups reject the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, while others desire greater openness. Leo XIV has chosen a path of dialogue, seeking to maintain unity without imposing a harsh break. As the apostle Paul says: "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:2-3, NIV).
Reform of the Curia
Another major undertaking is the reform of the Roman Curia. Leo XIV has continued the work begun by his predecessor, emphasizing transparency and collegiality. He has appointed women to key positions and encouraged greater participation of the laity. This reform aims to make the Church closer to the faithful and more effective in its mission.
The Church in the World: Peace and Dialogue
On the international stage, Leo XIV has established himself as a peacemaker. He has multiplied calls for ceasefires in the conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, and the Middle East. His discreet but steady diplomacy has opened channels of dialogue. He has also met with religious leaders of other faiths, promoting ecumenism and interreligious dialogue. As Jesus taught: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9, NIV).
Migration Crisis and Ecology
The pope has also addressed migration issues with great compassion. He visited refugee camps in Greece and Lebanon, calling on nations to welcome migrants with dignity. On ecology, he has continued the Church's commitment to protecting creation, taking up themes from the encyclical Laudato Si'. He has encouraged Christians to adopt a simpler lifestyle and to act for climate justice.
A Pastoral Style Close to the Faithful
Leo XIV stands out for his simplicity and closeness to people. He has renounced some papal privileges, such as the use of...
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