Summary of "An American Pope" Episode from The Daily
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Daily
- Host/Author: The New York Times
- Description: This is what the news should sound like. The biggest stories of our time, told by the best journalists in the world. Hosted by Michael Barbaro. Twenty minutes a day, five days a week, ready by 6 a.m.
- Episode: An American Pope
- Release Date: May 9, 2025
Introduction
In the episode titled "An American Pope," hosted by Michael Barbaro, Jason Horowitz, the Rome Bureau Chief of The New York Times, delves into the historic election of the first American Pope, Robert Francis Prevost, who assumed the papal name Pope Leo XIV. The episode explores the significance of this unprecedented event within the Catholic Church, the mechanics of the conclave that led to his election, and the potential implications for the future of the Church.
The Papal Conclave and Election Process
Setting the Scene
Jason Horowitz begins the episode by describing the atmosphere in St. Peter's Square during the conclave:
"I'm looking at a chimney surrounded by seagulls and trying to figure out if anything's coming out of it. And if it's smoke, if it's black smoke, they have an inconclusive vote, or if it is white smoke, which means we have a pope." [00:21]
He recounts witnessing the announcement of white smoke signaling the election of a new pope amidst the bustling crowd.
Mechanics of the Conclave
Michael Barbaro prompts a discussion on the intricacies of the conclave:
"Tell us about the mechanics of this election process, the unique rules around it and what we understand happened behind closed doors." [04:04]
Horowitz explains the opaque nature of the conclave, emphasizing the secrecy and the complex dynamics at play:
"The cardinals basically go into the Sistine Chapel and they take an oath of absolute secrecy... and how many cardinals are." [04:45]
He details the requirements for election—133 voting cardinals with a two-thirds majority needed for a candidate to be elected:
"As 133 voting cardinals entered into the Sistine Chapel... you need two thirds to become pope." [05:17]
Vote Dynamics and Political Maneuvering
Horowitz sheds light on the political strategies employed during the conclave:
"When they leave the Sistine Chapel, they are still sequestered... Politicking starts, right?... coalitions start building." [05:17]
He describes how initial inconclusive votes lead to behind-the-scenes negotiations and alliance formations, culminating in the eventual election of Pope Leo XIV.
The Historic Election of Pope Leo XIV
Announcement and Identity
The election culminates with the announcement of Robert Francis Prevost as the new pope:
"Dominum Robertum Franciscum Sancte Roman Ecclesiastical Cardinal aime Prevost." [09:00]
Horowitz reveals the chosen papal name and the breaking of geographical traditions:
"It's revealed that he's taken the name Pope Leo XIV. And all of a sudden, we have an American pope." [09:22]
Papal Address and Vision
Pope Leo XIV's inaugural address emphasizes continuity with his predecessor, Pope Francis:
"La pace si a contutti voi." ("Peace be upon you.") [09:44]
He aligns his vision with Francis's, advocating for a missionary and inclusive church:
"He names Francis twice. He talks about wanting a missionary church... synodality..." [09:59]
Horowitz interprets this as a signal that Leo XIV intends to uphold and continue Francis's legacy of inclusivity and pastoral focus.
Pope Leo XIV’s Background and Rise
American Roots and Early Life
Horowitz provides an in-depth look into Pope Leo XIV's background:
"He was born in Chicago in 1955... very religious family. He enters the seminary pretty soon..." [14:36]
He highlights the rarity of an American-born pope and the significance of his multicultural heritage.
Missionary Work and International Influence
Prevost's extensive missionary work in Peru is emphasized as a transformative period in his life:
"In 1985, Prevost is sent to Peru as a missionary... he ends up taking Peruvian citizenship." [16:00]
This experience mirrors Pope Francis's own pastoral work in Argentina, fostering a deep connection to global Catholicism.
Rise Through the Church
His ascent within the Church hierarchy is attributed to his alignment with Francis’s vision:
"In 2015, he appointed him bishop in Peru... in 2023, he ends up heading up the Office for Bishops..." [18:17]
His promotion to cardinal in 2023 positioned him as a key figure within the Vatican, ultimately leading to his papal election.
Potential Implications for the Catholic Church
Continuity and Change
While Pope Leo XIV appears to embody many of Francis's progressive ideals, Horowitz cautions against assuming complete similarity:
"I don't think we got another Francis. I think that there are differences here..." [11:45]
His dual American and Peruvian identity may influence his approach to global Church issues uniquely.
Navigating U.S. Relationships
The new pope's American origins raise questions about his relationship with the U.S. Catholic Church and its political landscape:
"He knows all these people... it's just going to be fascinating to see how he navigates all of this..." [22:58]
Horowitz speculates that Leo XIV might serve as a bridge between the Vatican and American political forces, potentially moderating conflicts seen during Francis's tenure.
Doctrinal Stances and Social Issues
Pope Leo XIV’s stance on doctrinal matters appears to align with mainstream Catholic teachings, maintaining conservative positions on issues like homosexuality and birth control. However, his approach to these topics, influenced by his pastoral background, could introduce nuanced perspectives within the Church:
"He is pretty much in the Catholic mainstream... someone who stands up for opposition to gay marriage and birth control..." [20:27]
Conclusion
The election of Pope Leo XIV marks a significant milestone in the history of the Catholic Church, introducing the first American pope who brings a blend of American and Peruvian influences to the papacy. While he upholds many of Pope Francis's inclusive and pastoral priorities, his unique background suggests potential shifts in navigating the Church’s relationship with global and political spheres, particularly in the United States. As Horowitz concludes, the true nature of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy will unfold in the coming years, shaping the future trajectory of the Catholic Church.
Notable Quotes:
- Jason Horowitz [00:21]: "I'm looking at a chimney surrounded by seagulls and trying to figure out if anything's coming out of it..."
- Michael Barbaro [02:11]: "Habemus papum. Do I have that right?"
- Robert Francis Prevost [09:00]: "Dominum Robertum Franciscum Sancte Roman Ecclesiastical Cardinal aime Prevost."
Key Takeaways:
- Historic Significance: Pope Leo XIV is the first American pope, breaking longstanding geographical traditions.
- Conclave Dynamics: The conclave was marked by strategic alliances and coalition-building among the cardinals.
- Papal Vision: Leo XIV intends to maintain and build upon Pope Francis’s legacy of inclusivity and pastoral care.
- Future Implications: His American background may influence the Vatican’s interactions with the U.S. and global political dynamics.
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the pivotal discussions and insights presented in the "An American Pope" episode, offering listeners a thorough understanding of the event and its broader implications within the Catholic Church and beyond.