US Cardinal Robert Prevost Faces Unexpected Papal Role
During the secret conclave in the Sistine Chapel, US Cardinal Robert Prevost found himself overwhelmed by the possibility of becoming the next pope.
He put his head in his hands, feeling the weight of leading the Catholic Church, which counts 1.4 billion members worldwide. This moment was witnessed by New Jersey Cardinal Joseph Tobin, who was among the 132 cardinals gathered to elect the new pope.
Emotions Inside the Conclave
Cardinal Tobin recalled seeing Prevost deep in thought during the final rounds of voting. “I looked at Bob, because his name had been mentioned, and he had his head in his hands,” Tobin said, using Prevost’s nickname.
“I prayed for him, trying to imagine what it feels like to face something so daunting.” But when Prevost accepted his new role, Tobin noticed a change. “It was as if he was made for it. Whatever struggles he had were resolved. It seemed clear that God had shown him the way, and he agreed.”
US Cardinal Robert Prevost’s Background and New Challenges
Now Pope Leo XIV, Prevost remains relatively unknown on the global stage. Before his election on Thursday evening, he was a missionary in Peru and served as a senior Vatican official for the past two years.
At a press conference, several cardinals shared rare insights about the conclave and even joked about the food they had during the election process.
Bridging Divides and Building Relationships
New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan suggested that Prevost’s American nationality likely did not influence the cardinals’ choice. “It should not surprise us if Pope Leo becomes a bridge builder,” he said.
“Will he want to build bridges with President Donald Trump? Probably. But he will also seek good relations with leaders of all nations.”
Prevost follows Pope Francis, who was known for openly criticizing some Trump administration policies, including plans to deport millions of migrants.
However, the cardinals emphasized that Pope Leo XIV will chart his own path. Washington Cardinal Robert McElroy noted, “We wanted someone who follows Francis’ way but not a copy.”
Meanwhile, Cardinal Wilton Gregory reminded everyone to give the new pope room to grow in his role, lightening the mood by quipping, “He’s never been pope before.”