Several leading American Catholic bishops and cardinals reflected on the spiritual journey involved in electing Pope Leo XIV this week. Cardinal Timothy Dolan from New York described the new clergymen as “citizens of the world,” emphasizing their role in bridging connections with President Donald Trump and other global leaders.
During the Conference of the US Catholic Bishops at the Pontifical North American University in Rome on Friday, six clergymen shared their insights about Pope Leo XIV. They noted that the Quick Conclave illustrated unity among the Cardinals.
Dolan remarked that it shouldn’t be surprising to see Pope Leo as a bridge-builder, given that’s the essence of the Latin term “pope.” He added, when asked by a reporter if the Pontiff acts as Trump’s counterbalance, that it’s more about connecting with leaders worldwide than just one individual.
“Would he aim to build a bridge over Donald Trump? I believe so, although I think he would want to connect with leaders globally,” Dolan said, underscoring that the Cardinals likely don’t see him as a counterweight to just one person.
Cardinal Robert Prebust also highlighted the new pope’s American heritage, tying it to his roots in Chicago. The setting was adorned with patriotic and Vatican flags, and they even played songs like “Born in America.” Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Archbishop Emeritus of Galveston-Houston, expressed pride in the election of America’s first pope.
DiNardo remarked, “[Pope XIV] is indeed a citizen of the world, given his decades of missionary work in South America.” Dolan echoed this sentiment, stating that the new Pope’s background as a Peruvian citizen also contributes to his global citizenship.
Many bishops likened Pope Leo XIV to a blend of Popes Francis and Benedict, noting his strong intellectual background alongside a warm disposition.
Pope Leo XIV’s choice of name carries significance as it reflects both Pope Leo the Great and Leo XIII, symbolizing strong leadership and a commitment to social issues. DiNardo pointed out that despite the church facing confusion, the 5th-century Pope managed to protect Rome and spread the message of Christ, indicating he sees wisdom in the new Pope’s name choice.
The bishops emphasized the profound spiritual and emotional significance of the Conclave, describing it as a unified experience of prayer with 10 voting cardinals from the US participating. Various speakers included Cardinal Joseph Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, and Cardinal Wilton Gregory, among others.
Dolan humorously commented, in response to a question about the simplicity of the meals during the conclave, “Let’s just say it was a good, good impulse to try this over again.”
