The papal conclave took less than two days last week to do something it had never done before – select a pope born in the United States. 

Formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago, Pope Leo XIV has been the head of the Catholic church for a little more than a week. 

Read more: Who is Robert Prevost, the new Pope Leo XIV? 

The 69-year-old pope spent much of his career as a missionary in South America. He served as a bishop in Peru. Most recently, he led the Vatican office for bishop appointments and is expected to build on Pope Francis’ reforms. 

However, some Catholics, especially in the U.S., viewed Pope Francis’ reign as too liberal, because of his support for issues like LGBTQ+ rights and immigration. 

Read more: Indiana religious experts reflect on legacy of Pope Francis 

It’s unclear what Pope Leo’s views on LGBTQ+ rights are, but groups such as the College of Cardinals have said he is likely to be less supportive than Pope Francis. 

However, before becoming pope, Cardinal Prevost spoke out critically about the Trump administration’s deportation of immigrants and treatment of the poor. He also took exception with an interview by Vice President J.D. Vance that suggested a hierarchy of God’s love. 

Read more: IU expert says international background will help first US pope 

On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the election of an American pope, what that means for Catholics here and abroad, how he will influence direction of the church and how religion has become so intertwined with politics.  

Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to  news@indianapublicmedia.org.    

You can also record your questions and send them in through email.   

Guests  

Father Patrick Hyde, priest at St. Paul’s Catholic Center 

Constance Furey, Professor of Religious Studies, Indiana University