As the world welcomed Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, many were abuzz with excitement about the implications for American politics. After all, here was an American Pope, one who had openly expressed concerns for the poor and immigrants, and whose social media profiles hinted at a more liberal bent. The Trump administration’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, however, quickly turned sour on the new Pope, with key voices from Donald Trump’s circle lambasting him as “anti-Trump” and “anti-MAGA.”
Steve Bannon, former chief strategist to President Trump, expressed shock at Leo’s election, citing his Twitter feed and statements against senior American politicians. He predicted friction between the White House and Vatican, possibly even tearing apart American Catholics. Other MAGA supporters echoed these sentiments, with Laura Loomer, a far-right influencer who has Trump’s ear on personnel decisions, calling Pope Leo “anti-Trump, anti-MAGA, pro-open Borders, and a total Marxist like Pope Francis.”
Despite the initial disappointment from some quarters of the MAGA movement, it is essential to recognize that the Catholic Church transcends partisan politics. The US Conference of Catholic Bishops celebrated Pope Leo’s election, emphasizing his new role as a global leader for all Catholics and people of goodwill. The bishops also highlighted his early indications of a path forward, advocating peace, unity, and missionary activity.
The reality is that the Catholic Church has rarely been more prominent in US politics than under the Trump administration, with faith playing a significant role in shaping the views of many Catholic officials and advisers. A recent Pew Research Center survey found that about 20% of Americans identify as Catholic, with nearly two-thirds believing abortion should be legal in all or most circumstances – a departure from the Church’s current stance.
As we navigate this new era under Pope Leo XIV, it is crucial to remember that his role is not solely defined by American politics. The Vatican has always been a beacon of moral leadership on the global stage, and it is essential for Catholics worldwide to unite behind their new leader. As Vice-President Mike Pence’s recent statement emphasized, “I try not to play the politicisation of the Pope game.” Instead, we should focus on praying for Pope Leo, the Church, and the world, as we move forward together.
In the end, it is up to each individual Catholic – regardless of their political affiliation – to decide how they will respond to Pope Leo’s leadership. Will they follow the path of his predecessor, Pope Francis, in advocating for the marginalized and promoting unity? Or will they choose a different direction? The world watches with bated breath as we embark on this new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.
Sourced from https://www.bbc.com/