Global Catholics Embrace Pope Leo XIV's Unique Multicultural Identity

The unexpected election of the first American pope initially caused uncertainty among Roman Catholics worldwide, who had viewed such an outcome as unlikely and perhaps unwelcome—until Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and greeted the crowd with a few words in Spanish.

In that defining moment on Thursday evening, the pope, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, deliberately avoided speaking English or referencing the United States, signaling that his identity transcends traditional national boundaries.

Born in Chicago with Creole roots and having spent decades in Peru, Pope Leo XIV speaks multiple languages and presents himself as a global citizen. Catholics everywhere have eagerly connected with aspects of his rich multicultural and multilingual background.

“He identifies as American but also embraces his Peruvian heritage,” said Julia Caillet, a 33-year-old osteopath, who joined young Catholics at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris for a special service celebrating the new pontiff. “He is truly a priest for the entire world.”

Amid concerns that an American pope might align the Roman Catholic Church more closely with the turbulent politics of the United States, particularly during a period marked by diplomatic isolation and global upheaval, Pope Leo XIV’s approach has provided reassurance.

He appears committed to preserving the Church’s role as a global moral authority advocating for peace, justice, and support for migrants, the impoverished, and victims of conflict, continuing the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis.