From ‘Bridge Builder’ to ‘Force for Unity’: How to see Catholic American-born Pope Leo XIV

The first Pope, born in the United States, was welcomed with optimism by Catholics in liberal and orthodox attitudes.Many people hope that the new pontf can bring unity and reduce stress between different groups within the church.Catholics with generous ideas hopes that the Pope Leo XIV Pope will pursue the legacy of Francis, especially focus on helping the poor, immigrants and marginalized communities. He also hopes that he will speak against the policies of the Trump administration which will struggle with his values.Catholics related to conservative attitude believe that Pope Leo will maintain traditional church principles strongly, especially abortion, similar-sex marriages and its teachings against women’s coordination.One of the main reasons for this optimistic approach is Leo’s strong message of unity. His motto and initial comments have insisted on bringing people together within the global church. San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Cordilon said, “It will be a good strength for unity in the church. Even with various ideas of opinion and strategy, we can keep unity in the church,”The American-born citizen, selected as the next Pope, was announced as a surprise for many people, including Catholicism historian John McGravy, who thought that an American-born Pope was not highly likely. However, he said that Pope Leo has made a global visit – serving in Peru, working in the Vatican, and leading an international religious order. “He is a global Catholic citizen,” said McGrayi. He said, “Even though he is an American, and we are proud that he is American, it is difficult to think about someone that is inherent in many global churches.”A major issue during the time of Pope Francis was how the church handled the Catholic politicians, who support the rights of abortion, such as former US President who Biden and former house speaker Nancy Pelosi.Pope Francis allowed Biden to achieve Communian (the holy sperm of the Lord), even though some bishops disagreed because they supported the rights of abortion. The previous teachings of the Pope Leo, where they talked about protecting the elderly from unborn, assured opponents like New Jersey Republican, American Representative Chris Smith.At the same time, reproductive rights groups such as Catholic for Choice acknowledged Leo’s opposition to abortion, but still expect that he will take more inclusive and compassionate approaches for issues such as birth control, IVF and reproductive health.The role of women in the church is still a major issue. Pope Francis gave women more leadership roles, but did not allow them to be a priest or deaf. The supporters of the coordination of women are closely watching Pope Leo. Elly Hidalgo said to the sensible deaf that his previous words showed humility and commitment to service. The Women’s Ordination Conference is also expected to engage in an open dialogue with Catholic women.Pope Francis helped the Pope Leo XIV route to the lead roles in Peru and later to the Vatican, where he looked after the appointment of a bishop. Experts believe that Pope Leo will probably continue Francis’ tendency to select bishops that focus more on taking care of people rather than strictly implementing.Many were worried that being a pope from the US could have a lot of impact in the Catholic Church, especially due to its power as a global superpower. They hope that Leo focuses on the teachings of the Church, especially in favor of the interests of a country, on important global issues such as migration and climate change.