Stepping Up as the First American Pontifex: A Look at Pope Leo XIV
U.S. Prelate Takes the Throne as First American Pope - United States' First Pope - Remarkable Papal Achievement
Welcome aboard to the long line of popes, or as we call it, the papal club! Not all of these 267 papal chairs have been filled with plenty of time for coziness. With Robert Francis Prevost taking the lead, the Catholic Church now has its first American pope.
The Rookie Pope
Here we go, the 267th Pontifex of the Catholic Church, taking charge: Robert Francis Prevost, alias Leo XIV. At 69, he's ready to steer the ship sailing 1.4 billion members of the worldwide congregation. Born and bred in Chicago, this archbishop has made a remarkable ascent.
Leading the Pack
The Catholic Church considers the apostle Peter, a disciple of Jesus, the first pope. He bid adieu in Rome around 64 or 67 AD. Since Peter, every pope is considered his successor.
The Young Turks
The youngest pope ever elected was John XII, who seized the throne at just 18 in 955. A wonder child indeed!
The Silver Foxes
Among the oldest popes elected were Coelestin III and Coelestin V in 1191 and 1294 respectively. They were 84 years young when they wore the papal crown.
The Eldest overall
Leo XIII of Italian descent, who departed in 1903 at 93, is the oldest pope on record. Albeit, Benedict XVI - the German pope previously known as Joseph Ratzinger - was a year and a half Elderly codger. He breathed his last New Year's Eve 2022, being 95, having abdicated in 2013[1][2].
The Shortest Stint
When it comes to the quickest papal tenure, Urban VII wins the trophy. He was laid to rest in 1590, a mere 12 days after his coronation due to malaria. The Italian John Paul I wasn't in office for much longer in 1978, clocking in at a measly 33 days.
The Longest Reign
Outlasting them all, Pius IX, ruled the church for over 31 years, passing away in 1878[3].
- Pope
- USA
- Robert Francis Prevost
- Catholic Church
- Leo XIV.
- Rome
- Chicago
- Peru
[1] - PublicaNewspaper[2] - TheGuardian[3] - BBC
In the midst of historical pontiffs, the 267th pope, Robert Francis Prevost, alias Leo XIV, brings a new chapter to the Catholic Church. As the first American pope, Leo XIV could potentially introduce innovative perspectives in science and health-and-wellness, given his roots in the United States, particularly Chicago, drawing parallels with the European Parliament's concern for the former Yugoslavia's situation.
