The Catholic Church ushered in a historic new era this morning with the selection of its first American pope. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected on the second day of the papal conclave and will be known as Pope Leo XIV.
Chosen on just the fourth ballot by 133 cardinals from around the world, his swift election suggests a degree of consensus rarely seen in recent years. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles posted on social media: "LA Catholics give thanks to God for His Holiness Pope Leo XIV."
The appointment of an American pope is monumental, but questions now swirl over the direction the Church will take under his leadership.
Pope Francis was widely regarded as progressive—championing causes like climate action, economic equality, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. Whether Pope Leo XIV will follow in that path or guide the Church back toward more conservative roots remains to be seen.
The Roggin Report invited contributors Tammy Black and Jill Marie Plaza to share their thoughts.
“I don’t have major expectations,” said Black. “But I do have a problem with the word ‘progressive.’ I’d rather say Pope Francis was fair—giving liberties to all. I hope that spirit continues.”
Plaza took a different stance. “I’m not Catholic, and I have my issues with the papacy,” she said. “But I believe Pope Francis went too far into social issues. I hope Pope Leo brings the Church back to its core teachings.”
The panel also explored whether the Pope—especially an American one—can help mend America’s cultural divides.
“The division doesn’t come from one man,” Plaza noted. “It’s the polarization of our culture. We’ve lost the ability to dialogue and respect different views.”
Black disagreed, suggesting that influential figures can absolutely sway public discourse. “When someone in power spreads negativity, that has consequences. The pulpit is powerful,” she said.
While opinions differ, one thing is certain: Pope Leo XIV’s leadership will be watched closely not just by Catholics, but by the world.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: Fred Roggin
May 8, 2025
