Cardinal Blase Cupich, the archbishop of Chicago, announced on Sunday that Pope Leo XIV will assume the responsibilities previously held by Pope Francis, particularly regarding immigration, climate change, and human trafficking.
During an interview with ABC News’ Martha Raddatz in Vatican City, Cupich expressed his belief that Pope Leo will enhance their political agenda. “I think he’ll help us complete and complement our political agenda,” he stated.
He elaborated on the Pope’s focus on immigration, highlighting his awareness of people’s struggles and their aspirations for a better life. “He still talks a lot about immigration because he knows about the suffering of people and the real needs they have for a better life. And he also knows that rising levels of the ocean just overwhelms the islands people are trying to escape from,” Cupich remarked.
Additionally, the Archbishop pointed out the issues of drug trafficking in Central and South America, noting the role of U.S.-made weapons in these problems. “He knows those people need options,” he said.
In a separate discussion with CBS News on “Face the Nation,” Cupich highlighted that Pope Leo feels a sense of duty to address contemporary issues, similar to Francis. “He now takes this opportunity as Leo XIV to think about the challenges of new technology: artificial intelligence, what it means to humanity,” he stated.
“I think he feels an obligation to speak to modern times, to modern times, as we live in a world where there are real challenges around the world,” Cupich added. “I think there will be a new moment to consider. What is the human aspect of immigration? How is global warming affecting us?”
