Robert Prevost, the first American pope and member of the Augustinian order, has chosen to take the name Leo XIV, indicating a commitment to social justice reminiscent of Leo XIII. His election and name choice suggest an intent to continue and build upon the social outreach established by Pope Francis. In his first address, Leo XIV acknowledged current challenges similar to those during the Industrial Revolution, urging the church to navigate these crises thoughtfully. Observers note that while there are parallels to past eras, the unique complexities of today's societal issues require nuanced approaches beyond historical precedents.
This namesake to indicate both a continuation of Francis's project of outreach to the poor and marginalized, and a renewal of a more rigorously justice-oriented approach to social questions within the magisterium.
Leo himself has now confirmed this influence, arguing in his first address to the college of cardinals that we now live in a second Industrial Revolution, replete with its own innovations and challenges to human dignity.
As Cardinal Sean O'Malley noted, Leo XIII was pontiff during a time of epic upheaval in the world, echoing contemporary challenges like the industrial revolution and Marxism.
The point of interpreting Leo XIV's choice of name and what it means for his papacy is not to locate precedent that will be replicated to the letter, but to look for relevant insights in present-day contexts.
Collection
[
|
...
]