Born in the US, so: an American; with an ecclesiastic career mostly spent in Peru, so: honorary Peruvian; and now… Roman?
When Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected in the May 8th conclave and became Pope Leo XIV during the Holy Jubilee Year, he assumed many titles, including bishop of Rome.
As he concluded the ceremonies to enter into this role, Leo declared himself ‘a Roman’.
Associated Press reported:
“The first American pope formally took possession of the St. John Lateran Basilica, which is Rome’s cathedral and seat of the diocese, with an evening Mass attended by Roman priests and faithful.
He then took the popemobile for a visit to St. Mary Major, where he prayed before Pope Francis’ tomb and an icon of the Virgin Mary beloved to many Roman faithful.”
In his address, Leo expressed a desire to listen to the priests and faithful ‘to learn, understand and decide things together’.
“Rome’s Mayor Roberto Gualtieri welcomed Leo first at the steps to City Hall, noting that his May 8 election fell during a Holy Year, an event occurring every 25 years to invite pilgrims to Rome. The city underwent two years of traffic-clogging public works projects to prepare and expects to welcome upward of 30 million people in 2025.
Leo said he felt the ‘serious but passionate responsibility’ to serve all Romans during the Holy Year and beyond.”
The Augustinian pope once again quoted St. Augustine in saying: ‘With you I am Christian, and for you, bishop’.
“’By special title, today I can say that for you and with you I am Roman!’ Leo said.”
Revivifying the venerable tradition of receiving homage and tribute from the City of Rome on the day of his Installation as Bishop of Rome, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV tells the Mayor of Rome, that “On a special note, today I can say to you and with you; I am Roman!” pic.twitter.com/rdCNxO48QS
— Catholic Sat (@CatholicSat) May 25, 2025
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