Pope

Friday Briefing

admin9 May 2025

The election of the first American pope.

‘I Was Stunned’: Watching From Illinois, Pope’s Brother Reflects on History

admin9 May 2025

From his home in suburban Chicago, one of the pope’s brothers described Leo as “middle of the road” but not afraid to speak his mind.

What’s in a Name? In the Case of Leo XIV, Lessons in Bridging Historical Shifts

admin9 May 2025

Pope Leo XIII, who served from 1878 to 1903, led the church into the modern world, emphasizing its moral authority beyond national boundaries. He defended the rights of working people and affirmed the value of science.

Cautious Optimism Among Liberals About New Pope’s Views on Gay Catholics

admin9 May 2025

Pope Leo XIV has said little publicly about a place in the Catholic Church for gay and transgender people. Some thought the issue would not be key to his agenda.

The New Pope Might Be Something Like the Old Pope

admin9 May 2025

With the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the College of Cardinals sent a clear message of continuity with the reformist agenda of his predecessor, Pope Francis. But despite Leo’s reputation as having a quieter, more disciplined ...

‘He Checked All the Boxes.’ Pope Leo XIV Overcame a Liability — Being American.

admin9 May 2025

Before he was chosen, Robert Francis Prevost had the papal seal of approval from his predecessor, Francis, who put him in one of the top jobs in the Roman Catholic Church.

Friday Briefing: The First American Pope

admin9 May 2025

Plus, Tate Modern turns 25.

Pope Leo XIV, the First American Pontiff, Took a Global Route to the Top Post

admin9 May 2025

Robert Francis Prevost, who led the Vatican office that selects and manages bishops globally, has spent much of his life outside the United States.

Who Is Robert Francis Prevost, the New Pope?

admin9 May 2025

Here’s what to know about Pope Francis’ successor, who was chosen on Thursday. He is the first American pope and will be known as Leo XIV.

Black Smoke, White Smoke: How the Vatican Tells the World There’s a New Pope

admin8 May 2025

In a tradition that scholars date to the 19th century, smoke released from a chimney will be colored white if the cardinals have made a decision, or black if they remain deadlocked.