In a historic moment for the American Catholic Church, Chicago native Cardinal Robert Francis Pavo has been elected pope, taking the name Leo XIV. The decision came as a surprise to many, both for its timing and for its break with longstanding convention. Mary FioRito, a pro-life attorney and fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, joined Chicago’s Morning Answer from Rome to discuss the implications of the first American pontiff—and the questions already emerging about his past and his priorities.
FioRito described the scene in St. Peter’s Square as electric when white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney. Most observers had expected Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, to ascend to the papacy. Instead, the announcement of “Roberto Francesco” stunned the crowd. FioRito, who was standing alongside a European news correspondent, recounted that some Vatican insiders had speculated weeks ago that Prevost’s elevation was a foregone conclusion—one allegedly orchestrated with Pope Francis’ blessing.
Despite the excitement of the moment, the election has raised flags among more traditional Catholics. Chief among them is Pavo’s perceived closeness with Cardinal Blase Cupich, the Archbishop of Chicago and a key figure in the Church’s progressive wing. FioRito acknowledged the concern but offered a balancing observation: “He didn’t come out in the simple white cassock like Pope Francis. He wore robes similar to those of Pope Benedict and chose a traditional name. That’s a signal of continuity.”
Pope Leo XIV’s past is already under scrutiny, especially regarding his handling of clergy abuse allegations in his prior roles, including his time at Providence Catholic High School and various leadership positions. FioRito noted that none of the accusations suggest personal misconduct, but questions have emerged about whether he failed to take appropriate action as an administrator.
“I’ve read that those issues were investigated and he was found to have acted properly at the time,” she said. Still, FioRito agreed that transparency is critical and that Pope Leo should address these matters directly. “He’d be wise to do so early and thoroughly,” she said, adding that lingering silence only feeds public distrust.
On doctrinal matters, Pope Leo is said to be firmly aligned with Church teaching on moral issues such as abortion, same-sex marriage, and gender ideology. FioRito noted that the media seemed surprised to discover that the new pope is a pro-life Catholic, “as if that weren’t exactly what one should expect from a Catholic pope.”
However, his apparent support for the synodal process, a key initiative of Pope Francis intended to democratize Church decision-making, drew FioRito’s skepticism. “When I heard that word—synodality—my heart sank a little,” she admitted. “Most Catholics I know felt excluded from the process. It seemed heavily skewed toward a particular ideological viewpoint.”
FioRito recounted a conversation with a pastor who participated in the synodal gatherings. “He told me his parishioners are worried about real-life issues—losing jobs, raising children, affording rent—not abstract debates about women priests or other social justice causes.”
Looking ahead, FioRito said she hopes Pope Leo XIV focuses on the challenges that most concern the global laity: restoring trust after the abuse crisis, upholding timeless doctrine, and providing spiritual leadership in a rapidly changing world.
“He knows this is top of mind for most Catholics,” she said. “He’s got a narrow window right now to establish confidence and credibility—not just with the faithful, but with the world.”
For now, Catholics around the globe are watching, waiting, and praying as the Church begins a new chapter under Pope Leo XIV. Whether his leadership brings clarity and healing—or deepens existing divides—remains to be seen.