Getting to know Pope Leo XIV: 7 Friendly ways to connect

Pope Leo XIV -- born Chicago native Robert Francis Prevost -- is the first U.S.-born pontiff and a leader with deep Latin American ties. At 69, he brings years of missionary service in Peru and fluency in multiple languages to the papacy.

In a warm, down-to-earth style reminiscent of Pope Francis, he has already spoken of “building bridges” and keeping his arms open to everyone.

Here are some fun and heartfelt ideas to help Catholic readers feel closer to him during these early days of his pontificate.

From his very first appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s, Pope Leo XIV greeted the crowds with warmth and openness. Televised and online Masses or blessings are great opportunities to tune in. In his debut address he said, “Peace be with you all,” and spoke of a “missionary Church” that “builds bridges” and keeps its arms open. (He even greeted people in Italian, Spanish and Latin.) Following these live events – whether on Vatican TV, YouTube, or your parish livestream – lets you hear his words firsthand and feel a part of the celebration.

Pope Leo XIV’s story is truly global. He’s Chicago-born and the first USA citizen ever elected to the papacy, but he also spent decades in Peru. In fact, he “spent a majority of his time in Peru” as an Augustinian missionary and bishop, according to ABC News, and even became a naturalized Peruvian.

Reading a short bio or news profile (for example, Aleteia’s “Who is Cardinal Robert Prevost” or major news outlets) can help. You’ll learn that he studied math at Villanova, entered the Augustinian order in 1977, and served as Bishop of Chiclayo (2015–23). This background can make his person feel familiar – whether it’s noting the Chicago church he grew up in, or the Peruvian community he led.

Because of Pope Leo’s unique blend of Chicago and Peruvian life, you can celebrate both cultures. He’s fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian thanks to his years in Latin America -- and also speaks French. Try incorporating some Peruvian Catholic traditions into your week: Perhaps listen to a Latin American hymn in Spanish during prayer, cook a Peruvian dish like a simple quinoa stew or ceviche, or find a local Spanish-language Mass to attend.

Exploring Peruvian saints or music can be fun, too (for example, Peru’s patron saint St. Rose of Lima or an Andean folk hymn). These gestures of solidarity make Pope Leo’s roots come alive in our own lives.

One of the best ways to “know” a Pope is through what he writes or says. Even before his election, Leo XIV gave interviews and homilies full of character. For example, in 2024 he told Vatican News, as reported in ABC News:

(Emulating Pope Francis’s collaborative style, he emphasizes listening to the people.)

You might seek out clips or transcripts online – sources like Vatican News, Our Sunday Visitor, and of course Aleteia will post snippets of his interviews. Reading or watching his past homilies (for example, from his time in Chiclayo) can give insight into his spirituality and priorities, helping you feel a personal connection.

Catholics have the duty to pray for all its shepherds -- now especially for Pope Leo XIV. One gentle way to feel close is to include him in your personal prayers or Rosaries. You could say a novena or offer a Mass intention for him on his feast day or name day, or on May 8 (the anniversary of his election).

Another warm idea is to join fellow parishioners in a Habemus Papam watch-party or a special coffee-hour discussion after Mass. Perhaps your parish can host a small “welcome Pope Leo” gathering with fellowship and prayer. Even something as simple as sharing a rose or image of a lion (his papal name “Leo” means lion) can become a symbol of unity. These community acts of love reflect his own call to be close to the people.

Even beyond his first appearances, stay engaged by following his early papal moves. Will he visit Peru or the United States first (or ever)? New popes often travel to places important to their mission. Watch for announcements – for instance, Vatican News and major Catholic media (including Aleteia) will report on any future trips.

Remember, he was Archbishop of Chiclayo, Peru, and is head of the Vatican’s Latin America office, so Latin American journeys seem likely. Subscribing to Vatican press releases or using the Vatican News app can keep you updated. When he does travel, following along (even virtually) – say, tracking flight routes or reading local Catholic news – is a meaningful way to share in his mission.

Finally, use this opportunity to bridge cultures. As Pope Leo XIV speaks several languages -- why not learn a prayer in Spanish or a few Italian greetings he might use? Listening to a Spanish-language Mass or watching a Peruvian Catholic ceremony online can offer insight into the faith he championed for years. You might also explore Peruvian art or music; for example, visit a local Latin-American church to admire religious iconography. Every time you read a Spanish Bible verse or celebrate St. Martin de Porres, you are, in a sense, celebrating a bit of his heritage. These small cultural connections are a friendly, personal way to feel closer to our new Pope.