Catholics everywhere experienced a moment of anticipation when white smoke curled above the Sistine chapel on May 8, 2025. The auspicious moment signified the selection of the next pope. Cardinal Robert Prevost would be the new head of the Catholic church and the Vatican. For many Catholics it was both a moment new hope and surprise when the successor stepped onto the balcony as the new leader of the church and announced the name he would take: Pope Leo XIV 

Chicago born Leo is the first North American to be selected as pope by the conclave of cardinals at the Vatican. Religious Studies teacher Claudia Pham expresses her heart-felt excitement about the new leader of the Catholic Church.

”When I first heard him give the address, I felt peace in my heart and I knew that this is what God wanted,” Pham said.

Though many are still learning who Pope Leo XIV is, many feel confident about his impact so far and feel hopeful about his direction. Some Catholic students such as sophomore Elizabeth Felten would describe his leadership so far as gentle and grounded in compassion.

”I know that his kindness, understanding, and commitment will impact the Catholic Church greatly,” Felten said.

Among many educators and longtime members of the Catholic Church, many feel the same sense of hope. Although Pham recalls a feeling of a mix of excitement and uncertainty when Leo was first announced.

”The anticipation of getting a new pope was very exciting but I remember also feeling very nervous because being the pope is a difficult job,” Pham said.

From the beginning of his papacy, Leo made it clear that he would focus on many things such as human dignity, spiritual dignity, and the dignity of others.

”He is addressing current prevalent issues, calling for peace in war-torn places,” Pham said. “These are issues that are impacting people right now and he is speaking out on them to help shift the perspective towards embracing the humanity of all people.” 

While Pope Leo hasn’t made any drastic changes at this time, he is encouraging long standing Catholic values that may have been forgotten.

”He hasn’t introduced any new teachings to the church but is upholding teachings that may have been put on the back burner,” Pham said. “It’s not new to care for the poor and advocate for the dignity of all people, but the way he is calling people to respond may feel new.”

Leo has also started putting some attention toward technology and especially the use of Artificial Intelligence. He is focusing on education regarding the ethical use of AI and dangers of it as well.

“He is passionate about the ethical use of AI,” Pham said. “This is new for society, it’s important to understand the dangers and implications of AI today,” Pham said.

Leo has made it clear that he wants to focus and help address modern challenges, saying that the church needs to respond to challenges that are shaping the world today. 

“I think he will have the most influence on Catholics, especially those who are seeking guidance from God,” Felten said.

Leo has also started to make a great impact on younger Catholics around the world. 

”In a time where many young people are struggling with their faith and identity they can turn to Pope Leo for inspiration and rediscover Jesus and live a life that strives for the common good of all people,” Pham said.