When news broke on May 8 that Pope Leo XIV had been elected as the first American pope, it sent waves of excitement and hope rippling through Catholic students all across the United States.
For many young Catholics, this wasn’t just a headline — it was a historic moment they felt deeply connected to.
Roselle Reyes from “EWTN News In Depth” caught up with several students to hear about their reactions and what this moment means to them.
The responses were filled with energy, pride, and a sense of unity.
A Day of Pure Joy and Celebration
Bahkita Karenge, a student from a Catholic school in Arlington, Virginia, remembers vividly how the news spread during the school day.
The hallways erupted with cheers, laughter, and hugs.
“Everyone was screaming, jumping, and laughing,” she said, painting a picture of pure, spontaneous joy.
What struck Bahkita most was how, in that moment, differences melted away.
It didn’t matter who played which sport, which friends you hung out with, or which trends you followed.
“Everyone was just a young Catholic kid, and everyone was excited that we have a new leader,” she reflected.
And in a touching show of unity, the students even came together to sing the national anthem, celebrating both their country and their faith.
A Pope Who Reflects America’s Diversity
Bahkita also shared what she thinks Pope Leo XIV represents.
“America is made up of so many different people coming together, so I believe the new pope will try to make sure everyone’s voice around the world is heard,” she said.
That inclusiveness is exactly what many young Catholics are hoping for in this new papacy.
Hopes for Renewal and Growth
Other students voiced their own hopes for Pope Leo XIV’s time as pope.
Benjamin Lee, another student from Arlington, pointed out that Pope Leo’s international background could inspire more people to join the Catholic Church.
Having grown up in Chicago and served as a missionary in Peru, Pope Leo brings a unique blend of experiences that Benjamin thinks will attract new followers.
“It’s exciting to have the first American pope who also has Peruvian roots,” said Alison de River, who shares that heritage and feels a personal connection to the pope’s story.
And then there’s Andreas Millradt, who sees the new pope as a catalyst for a spiritual revival.
“I hope Pope Leo XIV will bring a new revival to the U.S., helping everyone come closer to Jesus and learn more about Him,” Andreas said with heartfelt optimism.
Showing the Universal Church in Action
Patrick Aogauer emphasized how meaningful it is to have an American pope as a reminder that the Catholic Church is truly universal.
“I hope his papacy will expand the Church and show Americans that we’re all part of one global family,” he said.
A Moment of Pure Frenzy and Pride
The day of the announcement was nothing short of electric.
Andreas described how the students “just freaked out” when they heard Cardinal Robert Prevost from the U.S. had become Pope Leo XIV. “Everyone went into a frenzy,” he said. “It was incredible.”
The pride in having an American pope was something that united them all.
“It feels like we’re all connected,” Andreas added, “and being part of that moment with my classmates was such a blessing.”
Making the Vatican Feel Closer to Home
Jennifer Meszaros, a parishioner at Our Lady of the Blue Ridge, shared how Pope Leo’s American roots help young Catholics feel closer to the Vatican.
“They see someone who comes from a place they know,” she said. “He plays tennis, they play tennis—it’s something relatable.”
Jennifer also hopes the new pope will inspire a youth movement within the Church.
“We desperately need young people to engage with the Church’s future,” she explained.
A New Shepherd for a New Generation
Bishop Michael Burbidge of Arlington reflected on the palpable enthusiasm among young people following the announcement.
“There’s real excitement because it feels like the Lord has spoken to us,” he said.
“We’ve been given a new shepherd, and young people are responding with hope and joy.”