HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Pope Leo XIV was introduced Thursday, sending shockwaves through the world as he’s the first American pope, from Chicago, and an underdog in the election.
Father Joseph Lubrano, a priest at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Huntsville, said Pope Leo was not even on his radar.
“My first reaction was surprise,” Lubrano said. “I really did not expect, you know, an American to be considered pope. I’m just ecstatic and happy. I think that’s great. I think we’re overdue. In all the people that were placed on the list of who’s going to be the next, he wasn’t even mentioned. And, very honestly, I really didn’t know much about him.”
Lubrano said that lack of knowledge stems from Pope Leo’s extensive ministry career in other countries besides the United States. He said Leo spent a third of his time ministering in Peru and another third in Rome.
Nonetheless, Lubrano is excited about the election.
“What impressed me about him is he has worked with world leaders and will help steer the church,” Lubrano said.
Growing up, Pope Leo XIV went by Robert Prevost. It is tradition in the Catholic Church to select a new name if elected to become the pope. Lubrano said this is because one is taking on a new identity in such an important role.
“Leo XIII had written some letters supporting the Catholic community in the United States, way back when,” Lubrano said. “It was appropriate for him to take Leo and be the 14th.”
News 19 spoke with Catholic leaders in the city where Pope Leo grew up: Chicago.
Deacon Michael Penich said he is full of joy, along with the world.
“He’s a kind person, he’s a humble person,” Penich said. “The good thing is, you know, he has a good feeling for the entire world, not just the United States.”
Penich added that Pope Leo’s intent to mirror the actions of Pope Francis gives him even more hope.
“I would hope that the Catholic Church will continue in the footsteps of Pope Francis, who once wanted to, and did, welcome everyone,” Penich said. “And I think that’s a significant thing, that if the church is going to continue to thrive, we have to be a church that’s open to all people.”
The jury is still out on whether or not Pope Leo is a Chicago White Sox or a Chicago Cubs fan. The pontiff’s brother came out Thursday to say he roots for the White Sox, as he grew up in White Sox territory. Deacon Penich told News 19 he heard the pope is a Cubs fan.
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