The announcement of Robert Prevost as the next pope, now known as Leo XIV, has created an atmosphere of astonishment and joy among American Catholics. This unexpected elevation breaks long-held assumptions about American dominance preventing someone from the U.S. from leading the Catholic Church, which has historically viewed capitalism skeptically. Notable figures, like historian John McGreevy, emphasize this as a landmark moment, while celebrations were widespread, particularly in Chicago, Prevost's hometown, where significant pride and excitement were evident among parishioners and officials alike.
Unbelievable, said McGreevy, a prominent historian of Catholicism at the University of Notre Dame, minutes after Chicago native Robert Prevost was announced as the next pope. This is stuff you wouldn't have ever thought would happen. An American pope. Amazing.
For American Catholics, there will be enormous pride, McGreevy said. In terms of important days in the history of the U.S. Catholic Church, this is number one.
There was delight in Prevost's hometown of Chicago. At Holy Name Cathedral, bells tolled in celebration Thursday afternoon.
The Rev. Gregory Sakowicz, the rector at Holy Name, was giving Communion during a midday Mass on Thursday when a parishioner caught his eye and whispered, It's Cardinal Robert Prevost! At that moment, Sakowicz said, he looked outside and saw the sun come out.
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