Global media response to the election of Pope Leo XIV—born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago—showcased a mix of cultural pride and journalistic flair, capturing the significance of this historic papacy.
Pope Leo XIV: A Historic Moment Captured in Global Headlines
Pope Leo XIV: A Historic Moment Captured in Global Headlines
Newspapers worldwide celebrated the election of Pope Leo XIV, highlighting his unique background and significance as the first North American pope.
In a digital age, newspapers around the world marked the election of the new pope, Robert Francis Prevost, who has now taken the name Leo XIV, with impactful headlines and striking visuals. This event, celebrated on May 10, 2025, saw various outlets creatively framing both the historic context and national pride of a first-ever North American pontiff.
Leading newspapers embraced the Latin phrase “Habemus Papam,” heralding, "We have a pope," as they reported on the jubilation that erupted when Cardinal Dominique Mamberti introduced the new pope from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Images of Leo XIV waving to the assembled crowd emphasized the joyful reception and global significance of his selection.
Chicago media highlighted the new pope's roots, celebrating his journey from the Windy City with headlines like "Chicago's Pope" and playful nods such as “DA POPE!” in reference to the local fandom for the Chicago Bears. Meanwhile, The Philadelphia Inquirer took pride in noting that Pope Leo XIV is an alumnus of nearby Villanova University, underlining his American identity.
Internationally, outlets echoed similar sentiments, with Ireland's Daily Mirror stating “Let U.S. Pray,” while the Swiss Le Temps opted for the traditional “HabemUS Papam.” The Sun, a British tabloid, showcased a distinct American pride with its headline “God Bless American.”
Interestingly, some foreign papers chose to highlight Pope Leo XIV’s dual heritage, especially given his significant time spent in Peru as a missionary and later as bishop. Peru’s Correo boldly proclaimed “UN PAPA PERUANO,” while El Mercurio in Chile dubbed him both Peruvian and American due to his dual citizenship.
Many publications also chose a more reverent angle, leading with his papal name “Leo” over his nationality, presenting a more pious depiction with images of him in prayer. The San Francisco Chronicle encapsulated the spirit of his first message as pope with the headline "'Peace be with you.’”
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, the collective celebration from around the globe underscores the wide-ranging impact of this historical election on the Roman Catholic Church and beyond.
Leading newspapers embraced the Latin phrase “Habemus Papam,” heralding, "We have a pope," as they reported on the jubilation that erupted when Cardinal Dominique Mamberti introduced the new pope from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Images of Leo XIV waving to the assembled crowd emphasized the joyful reception and global significance of his selection.
Chicago media highlighted the new pope's roots, celebrating his journey from the Windy City with headlines like "Chicago's Pope" and playful nods such as “DA POPE!” in reference to the local fandom for the Chicago Bears. Meanwhile, The Philadelphia Inquirer took pride in noting that Pope Leo XIV is an alumnus of nearby Villanova University, underlining his American identity.
Internationally, outlets echoed similar sentiments, with Ireland's Daily Mirror stating “Let U.S. Pray,” while the Swiss Le Temps opted for the traditional “HabemUS Papam.” The Sun, a British tabloid, showcased a distinct American pride with its headline “God Bless American.”
Interestingly, some foreign papers chose to highlight Pope Leo XIV’s dual heritage, especially given his significant time spent in Peru as a missionary and later as bishop. Peru’s Correo boldly proclaimed “UN PAPA PERUANO,” while El Mercurio in Chile dubbed him both Peruvian and American due to his dual citizenship.
Many publications also chose a more reverent angle, leading with his papal name “Leo” over his nationality, presenting a more pious depiction with images of him in prayer. The San Francisco Chronicle encapsulated the spirit of his first message as pope with the headline "'Peace be with you.’”
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, the collective celebration from around the globe underscores the wide-ranging impact of this historical election on the Roman Catholic Church and beyond.
