Yesterday, smoke rose in large plumes from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new Pope. Shortly after, the Vatican announced Cardinal Robert Francis Prevast as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
During this time, Bishop Joseph Strickland, who had been appointed by Pope Francis after publicly opposing him over a departure from Catholic teachings, was interviewed by Glenbeck.
Before Prevast’s election, Strickland expressed concerns, stating that “there are wolves roaming freely in the conclave.”
Is Leo XIV among them?
In their discussion following Prevast’s announcement, Strickland shared insights about the new Pope.
“He’s served as the head of the bishops’ congregation,” Strickland mentioned. “He’s relatively new to the cardinalate.”
Glen added that two years ago, Pope Francis appointed him to replace Mark Uellett as governor of the Vatican bishop, giving him the responsibility of choosing the next generation of bishops.
Strickland raised questions about Prevast’s history, noting that his past is “clouded by allegations” related to covering up sexual abuse claims, although these were denied by his parish.
“In my view, as head of the bishops’ congregation, [Prevost] made some poor decisions,” Strickland remarked. “I was deeply troubled by some of the bishops he named.”
Strickland also commented on Prevast’s choice of name, Leo XIV, finding it intriguing.
“My predecessor, Leo XIII, had a vision of evil that threatened the Church. The prayer of St. Michael, the Archangel’s prayer, originated from him. He was commendable in many respects,” he said.
Strickland concluded that the best action for believers is to “keep praying.”
To hear more of his thoughts on Pope Leo XIV, check out the episode above.
