May 8th, 2025

Author: Jay Miller

HABEMUS PAPAM

The Catholic world watched eagerly as white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney on May 8, 2025. This signaled the election of a new pope. The announcement revealed that Cardinal Robert Prevost, an American missionary with a notable history in Peru, was chosen as the 267th successor to Saint Peter. He has taken the name Leo XIV, a choice that echoes past Popes named Leo, especially Pope Leo XIII.

As the first American pope, Leo XIV steps into a critical role, leading over a billion Catholics. He must balance the Church's long-held traditions with the challenges of today's world. His first public message stressed the need to “build bridges” and “welcome everyone.” This gives a hint of his approach, but how he will navigate these important aspects of the Church's mission remains a topic of great interest.

The Wisdom of Pope Leo XIII

Choosing "Leo" as his papal name is meaningful. It brings to mind Pope Leo XIII, who led from 1878 to 1903. His long pontificate had a lasting impact on the Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIII is known for his sharp mind and unique way of addressing modernism. He aimed to blend the Church's traditions with the changing modern world. His goal was to create a dialogue between Catholicism and a society facing rapid changes after major revolutions. This choice of name hints that Pope Leo XIV may want to tackle similar issues, using insights from his predecessor. The work of Pope Leo XIII helps us understand how the new Pope might balance keeping core doctrines alive while making the Church relevant today.

Pope Leo XIII cherished the Church's historical teachings and core doctrines. He emphasized restoring Christian philosophy, especially the work of Thomas Aquinas. This focus on Thomism aimed to provide a strong resource for addressing the philosophical and societal challenges of his era. In his encyclical Aeterni Patris, he promoted the connection between faith and reason. He believed solid philosophical inquiry is essential for understanding divine revelation.

Pope Leo XIII viewed the Church's intellectual heritage as a crucial guide for navigating the modern world, not a mere relic of the past. He warned against the temptation to suppress established doctrines. He firmly believed that true progress for the Church relies on its foundational teachings. He argued that advancements in industry and science could only be beneficial when anchored in the Church's wisdom and moral authority. This perspective shows that he regarded tradition as a dynamic source of truth, capable of guiding the Church through changing times.

Pope Leo XIII valued tradition but also understood the big changes from industrial civilization. He recognized these social and economic shifts and addressed them in his time. His famous encyclical Rerum Novarum (1891) tackled workers' rights and dignity during industrialization. This document earned him titles like "Social Pope" and "Pope of the Workers." It showed the Church's commitment to applying moral principles to the new challenges of industrial capitalism and socialism.

Rerum Novarum reflects Pope Leo XIII's view of progress, linking it to the Church's teachings on human dignity and the common good. He believed the Church should not only react to modern errors but also provide positive watchwords based on its philosophy and theology. His push for reviving Thomist philosophy aimed to give a universal key to solve modern problems, including political and socio-economic issues.

Pope Leo XIII also recognized the decline of Christian monarchs. He encouraged Christians to engage with public institutions based on Christian values. He saw the need for laypeople to interact with the modern world while staying true to their faith. His papacy showed a practical approach to the Church's relationship with secular society. He took conciliatory positions towards governments and valued scientific progress, all while holding firm to core Church beliefs.

Pope Leo XIII had strong beliefs about the role of the papacy. He stressed the independence of the Holy See and wanted it to be a true sovereign entity. This showed his concern for the Church's freedom from political influence. He saw his apostolic ministry as crucial for protecting the Church's integrity and the spiritual well-being of its members. He believed that setting rules for the Church's internal life was solely the Church's right, as given by Jesus Christ.

Additionally, Pope Leo XIII believed the papacy had two key responsibilities. First, it must maintain the unity of Catholic doctrine. Second, it should be sensitive and adaptable to the different cultures where the Church exists. This view highlights the careful balance needed in papal leadership. It requires sticking to tradition while also understanding the changing needs of various nations and societies.

Examining the pronouncements of Pope Leo XIII offers potential insights into the challenges and opportunities that might shape the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV. In his encyclical Rerum Novarum, addressing the tumultuous social and economic landscape of the late 19th century, Pope Leo XIII observed, "The elements of the conflict now raging are unmistakable, in the vast expansion of industrial pursuits and the marvelous discoveries of science; in the changed relations between masters and workmen; in the enormous fortunes of some few individuals,and the utter poverty of the masses; the increased self reliance and closer mutual combination of the working classes; as also, finally, in the prevailing moral degeneracy". While rooted in the context of the Industrial Revolution, this observation resonates with contemporary concerns surrounding economic inequality, the transformative impact of technology on labor, and the ethical dilemmas arising in a rapidly changing world. Pope Leo XIV might find inspiration in his namesake's analytical approach, recognizing the need to carefully discern the defining issues of the 21st century and to address them with both wisdom and compassion.

Pope Leo XIII's encyclical Aeterni Patris gives lasting guidance on faith and reason. He stated, "For, the same God Who is the author of faith and the author of reason has bestowed upon us the light of reason and the light of faith, and these lights are of such a nature that they cannot in any way contradict each other... reason, when rightly exercised, leads to the foundation of faith; and, enlightened by faith, it perfects our knowledge of divine things."  In today's world, where many see a clash between science and religion, this idea of harmony is still important. Pope Leo XIV could use this wisdom to create positive dialogue between the Church and the scientific community. This can help both faith and reason be viewed as paths to truth and understanding.

Conclusion

As an Augustinian friar and a Villanova University alumnus, his spirituality and education will shape his new role. His recent elevation to cardinal by Pope Francis and his work as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops suggest continuity with the past pontificate. This is especially true in reaching out to marginalized communities and embracing a global view. However, his choice of the name "Leo" shows a desire to connect with a different legacy. This legacy values tradition and modern engagement.

Some sources describe him as a centrist, holding progressive views on social issues like Pope Francis. However, he takes a more conservative approach on certain doctrinal matters, such as the ordination of women deacons. Pope Leo XIV appears to have a nuanced position in the Church. His method of balancing tradition and progress will likely be selective. He may embrace change in some areas while keeping continuity in others.

Following the example of Pope Leo XIII, who reconciled the Church with various governments and addressed social needs, the new Pope might focus on diplomacy. He may promote dialogue both within the Church and with the wider world to foster unity and tackle contemporary challenges effectively.

Closing Prayer

O God, shepherd of all the faithful, we humbly beseech you to bestow your abundant blessings upon your servant, Pope Leo XIV, whom you have called to lead your Church in these times. Grant him the strength and wisdom to navigate the storms that may come, and imbue him with the spirit of the great Popes who have come before him, especially his namesake Leo XIII. May he be guided by your light to uphold the sacred traditions of our faith while discerning the path forward to meet the challenges of the modern world, always seeking to expand your kingdom and bring all souls to Christ. Amen.