• Robert Prevost, formerly Cardinal Prevost, has been elected Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American pope.
• Leo XIV's past statements on LGBTQ+ issues are raising concerns, while his views align with Pope Francis on issues like migrants and the environment.
• He faces the challenge of unifying the Church amidst differing views on social issues, and addressing the ongoing clergy abuse scandals.

Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old from Chicago, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, marking a historic moment as the first American to hold the position. The election took place on the second day of the conclave, and Leo XIV addressed the public from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. He is considered a leader with global experience, having spent much of his career as a missionary in South America and holding dual citizenship in the US and Peru. He has previously led the Dicastery for Bishops. His election has been met with cautious optimism as he faces challenges including uniting a church with differing views on social issues and addressing the clergy abuse scandals.

• What: Robert Prevost has been elected Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, succeeding Pope Francis.
• Who: Key individuals: Robert Francis Prevost (Pope Leo XIV), Pope Francis. Key organizations: Catholic Church, Dicastery for Bishops, Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP).
• When: Election occurred on May 8, 2025. Prevost's past comments on LGBTQ+ issues date back to 2012. SNAP filed a complaint six weeks before his election.
• Where: Vatican City; Prevost's previous work in Chicago, USA, and Trujillo/Chiclayo, Peru.

The election of Pope Leo XIV presents a complex situation for the Catholic Church. His background as an American with extensive experience in Latin America brings a unique perspective to the papacy. While he is expected to continue some of the reforms initiated by Pope Francis, his past statements on LGBTQ+ issues and the existing allegations regarding his handling of clergy abuse cases create potential challenges. His ability to address these issues effectively will be crucial in shaping his papacy and maintaining the Church's relevance in a rapidly changing world. The different tones from news outlets highlight the divided opinions regarding the new Pope, ranging from cautious optimism to concern.

We pray that in the 13 years that have passed, 12 of which were under the papacy of Pope Francis, that his heart and mind have developed more progressively on LGBTQ+ issues, and we will take a wait-and-see attitude to see if that has happened.

"We still hear in our ears the weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis who blessed us," he said. "United and hand in hand with God, let us advance together,"

"We reject cover-ups and secrecy" about sexual abuse cases. He urged people to come forward if they’re aware of abuse against minors by a priest.

Pope Leo XIV's election as the first American pope marks both a historic moment and a complex challenge for the Catholic Church. While his background suggests a potential continuation of Pope Francis's emphasis on social justice, his papacy faces significant hurdles. He must bridge deep divisions within the Church, particularly regarding the interpretation of Vatican II, liturgical reforms, and the role of women. His past comments concerning LGBTQ+ Catholics present an immediate need for clarification and action, especially given Pope Francis's efforts toward inclusivity. Furthermore, Pope Leo XIV inherits the ongoing crisis of clergy abuse scandals, requiring decisive measures to ensure accountability and support for victims, especially as he himself has faced scrutiny for his handling of past allegations. His choice of the name Leo signals a commitment to social justice in line with Leo XIII, but whether he will follow the managerial style of Pope Francis remains to be seen. The coming months will reveal his approach to these multifaceted challenges and his ultimate impact on the global Catholic community.