Politics
US Catholics New Pope Hopes: Divided Yet United in Faith
US Catholics new pope hopes
News that the global Catholic Church would have its first-ever U.S.-born pope was met with broad approval among American Catholics, spanning ideological lines in Pope Leo XIV’s homeland. The development has sparked hopes that he may help bridge internal divisions within the Church.
Among more progressive U.S. Catholics, there is hope that Leo will continue Pope Francis’ emphasis on outreach to the poor, the marginalized, and migrants—offering a contrast to policies of the Trump administration that many find troubling. Conversely, conservative Catholics anticipate that he will uphold traditional Catholic teachings, particularly on abortion, same-sex marriage, and women’s ordination.
Signs of optimism are rooted in the new pope’s early statements and his papal motto, both emphasizing the importance of unity in the global Church.
“In these early days, he’s still an empty vessel,” said Steven Millies, professor of public theology at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. “Until we all get to know him better, we can pour our expectations into him.”
John McGreevy, provost at the University of Notre Dame and a historian of Catholicism, said he was “completely stunned” by the election of an American pope, long thought unlikely. Yet he noted that Leo has significant global experience from his time in Peru, the Vatican, and leading an international religious order.
“Even though he’s American—and we’re proud of that—it’s hard to think of someone more deeply engaged in the global Church,” McGreevy added.
What will Pope Leo’s relationship with U.S. Catholics look like?
McGreevy believes it’s too early to say definitively. Early signs suggest similarities with Pope Francis may continue, potentially extending disagreements with conservative U.S. bishops.
Tensions between the Vatican and the U.S. government may persist on issues such as immigration and climate change—priorities of Francis that Leo is expected to uphold.
Chad Pecknold, a theology professor at the Catholic University of America, contrasted Leo’s apparent fondness for America with Francis’ perceived distance. “With Leo XIV, it’s clear he not only loves America, but even the White Sox,” Pecknold said in an email. “That can only have a good effect.”
One major controversy under Francis was whether Catholic politicians who support abortion rights—like President Joe Biden and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi—should receive Communion. Francis opposed exclusion, and Biden received Communion during a 2021 visit to Rome.
San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone, who had denied Communion to Pelosi, called Pope Leo a “bridge builder.”
“He will be a good force for unity in the Church,” Cordileone said in a KPIX-TV interview, expressing hope for collaboration despite differing opinions.
U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, a New Jersey Republican and prominent abortion opponent, referenced a homily by Leo (then Cardinal Robert Prevost) emphasizing the protection of life at all stages. Smith said the remarks showed Leo’s commitment to the Church’s humanitarian responsibilities.
Chris Wimbush, interim president of Catholics for Choice, acknowledged Leo’s anti-abortion stance but hoped for openness. The group plans to send him letters from Catholics who support reproductive rights.
“We are praying that he will be a pope guided by peace, justice, and inclusion,” Wimbush said, stressing the importance of nuance on issues like abortion, contraception, and IVF.
Women and the Church
Pope Francis expanded leadership roles for women but upheld bans on female priests and deacons. Ellie Hidalgo, of Discerning Deacons, hopes Leo supports continued review of women’s roles in ministry.
Hidalgo heard Leo speak in Rome earlier this year and was struck by his emphasis on humble service. “I could tell he values that personally,” she said.
The Women’s Ordination Conference praised Leo’s inclusive tone and expressed hope he will build bridges to Catholic women. Their statement envisioned a future where women are recognized as equals in the Church.
Chosen by Francis
Francis helped shape Leo’s path to the papacy, assigning him key roles in Peru and the Vatican. Millies noted that as prefect overseeing bishop appointments, Leo contributed to a quieter shift within U.S. church leadership.
While the U.S. bishops’ conference leadership remains largely conservative, Millies said a more pastoral generation is emerging. “The election of Leo means we are firmly in a different era,” he said.
Historically, the idea of a U.S. pope raised concerns about increasing American influence. Austen Ivereigh, author and Vatican expert, said that shouldn’t be an issue with Leo.
“If anyone thinks Leo will differ from Francis on migration or climate, they’re in for a surprise,” Ivereigh said. “He will continue applying Church teachings as Francis did.”
After Leo’s election, Bishop Robert Strickland—removed by Francis in 2023—posted on social media, expressing hope Leo would uphold Church traditions and asking for prayers for his papacy.