Friday marked a historic moment for the Catholic Church as Robert Francis Prevost was elected Pope Leo XIV, and newspapers worldwide celebrated with diverse, creative covers.
Pope Leo XIV Elected: A Historic Moment Captured in Print
Pope Leo XIV Elected: A Historic Moment Captured in Print
Global media showcases the election of the first North American pope with celebratory headlines and a focus on his heritage.
In a moment that transcended borders, the election of Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV on Friday resonated in newspapers around the globe. Born in Chicago, Leo XIV made headlines as the first North American pope, prompting a surge in coverage that celebrated his roots with playful word choices, vibrant images, and poignant phrases.
International media outlets embraced this historical election with enthusiasm, using the Latin expression "Habemus papam"—meaning "We have a pope"—as a rallying call. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti from France elicited cheers as he delivered the announcement from the papal balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, marking the beginning of Pope Leo XIV's public ministry. The appeal of his election was evident in the widespread use of imagery capturing his debut as he waved to eager crowds.
In Italy, L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican's official newspaper, dedicated a full-page spread to the new pope, stating in Latin, "We have a Pope. Robert Francis Prevost who took the name Leo XIV." International outlets paid special attention to Leo XIV's American heritage. The Irish Daily Mirror opted for the headline "Let U.S. Pray," while Le Temps in Switzerland announced "HabemUS Papam." Meanwhile, The Sun in the UK cheekily dubbed the pope “God Bless American,” further emphasizing his origins.
Local Chicago newspapers celebrated the occasion with notable flair. The Chicago Tribune proclaimed "Chicago’s pope," while The Chicago Sun-Times's playful headline "DA POPE!" drew a laugh with connections to the city's beloved football team. The Philadelphia Inquirer highlighted his ties to the area, remarking he is “An American Pope” and a Villanova University alumnus, reflecting the significance of his academic journey.
As global perspectives varied, some newspapers recognized Pope Leo XIV’s dual heritage. Corriere della Sera from Milan highlighted the American connection with “Il Papa americano,” while Peru’s Correo playfully adopted, “UN PAPA PERUANO.” Although he was not born in Peru, his long-time missionary work there established strong ties with the region and its people.
Many publications veered from nationality discussions, leaning towards a more reverential approach with simpler headlines, such as "Leo," reflecting a solemn respect for his new role. Quotes from his inaugural address, such as "'Peace be with you,'" made headlines in publications like The San Francisco Chronicle, showcasing the hopeful message Leo XIV aimed to impart to the world.
As the news spread, the profound impact of Pope Leo XIV's election continued to invite a mix of celebration and reflection across cultures, forging a path not only for his papacy but also for the global Catholic community at large.
International media outlets embraced this historical election with enthusiasm, using the Latin expression "Habemus papam"—meaning "We have a pope"—as a rallying call. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti from France elicited cheers as he delivered the announcement from the papal balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, marking the beginning of Pope Leo XIV's public ministry. The appeal of his election was evident in the widespread use of imagery capturing his debut as he waved to eager crowds.
In Italy, L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican's official newspaper, dedicated a full-page spread to the new pope, stating in Latin, "We have a Pope. Robert Francis Prevost who took the name Leo XIV." International outlets paid special attention to Leo XIV's American heritage. The Irish Daily Mirror opted for the headline "Let U.S. Pray," while Le Temps in Switzerland announced "HabemUS Papam." Meanwhile, The Sun in the UK cheekily dubbed the pope “God Bless American,” further emphasizing his origins.
Local Chicago newspapers celebrated the occasion with notable flair. The Chicago Tribune proclaimed "Chicago’s pope," while The Chicago Sun-Times's playful headline "DA POPE!" drew a laugh with connections to the city's beloved football team. The Philadelphia Inquirer highlighted his ties to the area, remarking he is “An American Pope” and a Villanova University alumnus, reflecting the significance of his academic journey.
As global perspectives varied, some newspapers recognized Pope Leo XIV’s dual heritage. Corriere della Sera from Milan highlighted the American connection with “Il Papa americano,” while Peru’s Correo playfully adopted, “UN PAPA PERUANO.” Although he was not born in Peru, his long-time missionary work there established strong ties with the region and its people.
Many publications veered from nationality discussions, leaning towards a more reverential approach with simpler headlines, such as "Leo," reflecting a solemn respect for his new role. Quotes from his inaugural address, such as "'Peace be with you,'" made headlines in publications like The San Francisco Chronicle, showcasing the hopeful message Leo XIV aimed to impart to the world.
As the news spread, the profound impact of Pope Leo XIV's election continued to invite a mix of celebration and reflection across cultures, forging a path not only for his papacy but also for the global Catholic community at large.
