Consider This from NPR This American pope
27 snips
May 8, 2025 Jason DeRose, NPR's religion correspondent, dives into the implications of Cardinal Robert Prevost's election as the first American pope, Leo XIV. They discuss his diverse background and the potential shifts in the Catholic Church's approach to social issues. The conversation highlights reactions to Pope Francis' prior reforms and speculates on how Leo XIV may balance tradition with progress. Key topics include the roles of women and married clergy, and the broader geopolitical significance of this historic leadership change.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
American Pope as Global Citizen
- Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, is the first American pope but spent much of his life outside the U.S.
- He portrayed himself as a global citizen by speaking mainly in Italian and Spanish on his first address.
Pope Leo XIV's Extensive Experience
- Pope Leo XIV has broad pastoral, missionary, teaching, and administrative experience, including appointing bishops globally.
- He resembles Pope Francis with deep international ties and a comprehensive view of church leadership.
Direction of Papacy Under Leo XIV
- The cardinals chose Leo XIV to continue Pope Francis's path, but possibly at a slower pace.
- Conservatives wanted a slower reform, while liberals feared a conservative backlash that did not materialize.