In a brief yet telling exchange, Pope Leo XIV, recently elected as the head of the Catholic Church, was approached by a reporter at the Vatican and asked if he had any message for the United States.
The Chicago-born pope, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, gave a short but significant reply: “Many.”
When pressed for more, he added simply, “God bless you all.”
The moment quickly made waves on social media, with many wondering if his words were a veiled criticism of former President Donald Trump.
A Quick Response That Raised Eyebrows
The pope’s response, though brief, sparked intense discussion online.
Some believed his statement was aimed at Trump, especially since Leo XIV had been vocal about his disapproval of the former president’s policies, particularly on immigration.
“I just hope this pope ain’t woke,” one social media user commented, while another called it a “holy mic drop.”
Others speculated that Leo had simply misheard the question, interpreting it as a request for blessings for the U.S., which would make his response of “God bless you all” more fitting.
Pope Leo XIV’s Social Media History on Immigration Issues
Pope Leo’s stance on immigration has been clear, with several past posts showing his disapproval of Trump’s policies.
Just last month, he criticized the deportation of a Maryland father, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, back to El Salvador, writing: “Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed?” He also shared articles addressing the views of Catholic figures like JD Vance on immigration, notably one titled, “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.”
In 2018, he had also shared a post condemning the U.S. policy of separating children from their parents at the border, which he described as “neither Christian, American, nor morally defensible.”
These actions paint a picture of a pope who will continue to challenge policies that he perceives as harmful, especially those involving vulnerable communities.
An American Pope with a Global Perspective
Pope Leo’s background in Latin America, where he spent much of his career, adds another layer to his viewpoint on immigration.
He became a naturalized citizen of Peru during his time there, and his global perspective has informed much of his pastoral work.
On Thursday, as he addressed the world for the first time as pope, he spoke in Spanish and Italian, notably avoiding his native English, a choice that caught the attention of many.
The crowd at the Vatican seemed stunned, chanting “Leo, Leo,” as they realized they were witnessing the first American-born pope in history.
Many were left wondering if his election would signify a shift in the Church’s approach to various issues, including those involving the United States.
A Quiet Reformer with Big Expectations
While Leo XIV’s critics may wonder about his approach to politics, particularly regarding the U.S., it is clear that his election has been met with both anticipation and apprehension.
Despite his seemingly quiet demeanor, he was seen as a reformer during the Conclave and is expected to continue much of the work initiated by Pope Francis, particularly on social justice and human rights issues.
Even President Trump and JD Vance, both of whom have previously been the subject of the pope’s critiques, were quick to congratulate him on his historic election.
Trump praised Leo as the “first American pope,” expressing excitement about meeting him, while Vance echoed similar sentiments, wishing the new pope success in his leadership.
Looking Ahead to a New Era for the Church
As Pope Leo XIV settles into his role, it is clear that his leadership will bring both continuity and change.
His American roots, his experiences in Latin America, and his clear stances on issues like immigration will likely shape his papacy in ways that could challenge some of the Church’s longstanding traditions.
However, his ability to balance reform with tradition may ultimately define his legacy as the first American pope in history.