Pope Leo XIV signaled on Saturday that his papacy will continue the legacy of the late Pope Francis, urging church cardinals to uphold the “precious legacy” left behind by his predecessor and identifying artificial intelligence as a significant challenge for both the workforce and the protection of human dignity.
Born Robert Prevost in Chicago, Pope Leo made history on Thursday by becoming the first US-born pope, a development that has thrilled many Catholics across the Americas.
In his first formal meeting with the cardinals, which was met with a standing ovation, Pope Leo explained that he chose his papal name to honor Pope Leo XIII, who addressed the social issues arising from the first industrial revolution.
Pope Leo XIII led the Church from 1878 to 1903, remembered for his contributions to Catholic social teaching, including his 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, which focused on the challenges posed to workers during industrialization.
“In our era, the Church continues to offer its social teaching in response to the new industrial revolution and the rise of artificial intelligence, which presents fresh challenges in protecting human dignity, justice, and labor,” Pope Leo XIV remarked on Saturday in fluent Italian.
Dressed in the traditional white papal robes, he signaled that his leadership would build upon Pope Francis’ reforms and his commitment to social justice.
“It has been clearly demonstrated by my predecessors, especially Pope Francis, whose life exemplified dedication to service, simplicity, and trust in God. His example has left a precious legacy that we must continue, inspired by faith and hope,” Pope Leo emphasized.
He also called on the cardinals to reaffirm their commitment to the Second Vatican Council, which brought significant reforms to the Church in the 1960s, including allowing Mass to be celebrated in local languages rather than Latin.
Pope Leo laid out his vision for the future, focusing on a missionary approach, growth in collegiality and synodality, open dialogue with the modern world, and a commitment to care for the marginalized and neglected.
The pope also emphasized that he would approach his papacy with humility and fraternity, acknowledging the significant responsibility he now bears.
“You, dear cardinals, are my closest collaborators, and your support has been a great comfort to me as I accept this mission, far beyond my own abilities,” Pope Leo said.
He expressed gratitude toward key figures in the church, including Dean of the College of Cardinals Giovanni Battista Re and Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell, who guided the Church through the papal transition.
Pope Leo is scheduled to appear on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica once again on Sunday to greet the crowds gathered below.
His official installation Mass will take place on Sunday, May 18.
