One year into the Leonine Pontificate

Anniversaries of notable events such as births, weddings and ordinations are important. A first anniversary holds special significance as we look to the recent past and especially toward the future.

On May 8, we will celebrate an important first anniversary: that of our supreme pontiff, Pope Leo XIV.

Many of us can recall where we were just one year ago when the white smoke appeared over the Sistine Chapel in which the cardinal electors had gathered to complete their important task of electing the next pope. Perhaps you gathered around a television or in front of a computer screen at home or at work. I distinctly remember gathering with staff at the Catholic Pastoral Center, waiting in the refectory to hear whom the cardinals had elected.

And what a surprise it was when that name was announced in Latin: “Habemus Papam! … Cardinale Prevost.” The first U.S.-born pope in history!

Immediately, questions came to mind: What would his message be? How would he represent our country? Where would he lead the Church?

One year later, answers are emerging. Pope Leo has proven to be a reassuring light for the Church, an inspiration to many young people and a faithful steward of the magisterial and liturgical patrimony entrusted to him. As we mark this anniversary, it is worth reflecting on four dimensions of his papacy that offer insight into his pastoral vision and the concerns he carries for the Church and the world.

First, his Apostolic Exhortation, “Dilexi Te” (I have loved you) reveals the foundation of his teaching. In continuity with Pope Francis, Pope Leo calls the Church to “always be mindful of the poor,” keeping the Church’s social doctrine at the heart of pastoral life. This echoes the concern of Saint Peter at the Council of Jerusalem, who instructed Paul and Barnabas to do the same (cf. Gal 2:10).

In “Dilexi Te,” the Holy Father admits, “The acceleration of technological and social change in the past two centuries, with all its contradictions and conflicts, not only had an impact on the lives of the poor but also became the object of debate and reflection on their part.”

Even so, the Church must continue to respond to political, economic and technological shifts while remaining a clear voice for the vulnerable.

Second, Pope Leo has spoken frequently about artificial intelligence. Like his 19th century predecessor Pope Leo XIII, who guided the Church through the Industrial Revolution, this Pope Leo recognizes the challenge and potential of this new cultural and technological development.
 
Building on the work of Pope Francis, especially the document “Antiqua et Nova,” he has emphasized both the potential and the limits of AI. Akin to a new industrial revolution, it must be guided responsibly. While encouraging thoughtful engagement with technology, he also has been clear: AI can assist, but it cannot replace the human act of faith.

As he has noted, a homily is meant to communicate faith, something AI “will never be able to share.” This is a theme he probably will continue to develop as this technology continues to reshape society and the global economy.

Third, Pope Leo has emerged as a strong and consistent voice for peace, like so many of his predecessors over the past century.

In the midst of ongoing international conflicts, he has called for dialogue, cooperation and prayer. At a recent vigil for peace, he addressed world leaders with striking clarity: “Stop! It is time for peace! Sit at the table of dialogue and mediation, not at the table where rearmament is planned and deadly actions are decided!”

His appeal is not only directed at distant nations, but also to our own leaders and to those of our allies and of our enemies. In union with the Holy Father, we are invited to pray for peace and to imitate the Blessed Virgin Mary, who remained steadfast even at the foot of the Cross.

Finally, Pope Leo has shown a deep love for the Church’s liturgy and a desire to promote its richness. Through initiatives such as “Let’s Sing with the Pope,” he has encouraged a renewed appreciation for Gregorian chant. He also has restored certain papal liturgical practices, including the Holy Thursday Mass at the Vatican with the washing of the feet of priests.

At the same time, he has signaled a desire for greater liturgical unity while allowing space for the Traditional Latin Mass through broader permissions. His approach suggests a hope for balance: one that preserves the Church’s heritage while fostering solid liturgical formation in a rapidly changing world.

Beyond being the first pope to bring a White Sox jersey into the papal household, Pope Leo has, in this first year, proven himself to be a compelling representative of our nation. He is one of us. We can be proud that he is a man attentive to the poor, aware of global challenges, and firmly anchored in the faith and liturgical life of the Church. He continues to guide the barque of Peter through the storms of our time, leading the Church toward safe harbor.

Let us give thanks to God for this first year of his pontificate, and as they say in Rome: “Ad multos annos! Viva il Papa!”