“A Sacred Choice”: Reflections on the New Papacy of Leo XIV

by Fr. Lito Jopson

In the solemn silence of the Sistine Chapel, history was made again. The Catholic world now looks to its new shepherd, Pope Leo XIV—a man described not only as deeply spiritual and discerning, but also approachable and grounded. In conversations with Filipino cardinals who participated in the recent conclave, a deeper, more personal picture of this new papacy emerges—one rich with humility, spiritual depth, and a strong social conscience.

A Papacy Rooted in the Spirit

According to Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the selection of a pope is not merely a political event—it is a spiritual moment. “We are not candidates,” he says firmly. “We are disciples. This is not a campaign, but a call to face God. We rely not on strategies but on prayer and the Holy Spirit.”

Cardinal Tagle emphasizes the importance of spiritual disposition over personal ambition: “It’s an internal discipleship that is promoted—a sacred responsibility before the Lord.”

A Message of Gratitude and Hope

For Cardinal Jose Advincula, the elevation of Pope Leo XIV is a moment of profound gratitude. “Let us thank God for this gift,” he urges. “It is a great honor, but also a great responsibility. He will need our prayers—not only now but throughout his ministry.”

Tagle echoes this, reminding Filipinos of the enduring affection between the Filipino faithful and the Holy Father. “We’ve always welcomed the popes not out of spectacle, but out of deep love and faith—even if it means standing under the sun for hours, without reward.”

A Leader Who Listens

Behind the grandeur of titles lies a humble man. In his interactions with the new pope, Cardinal Pablo David (Ambo) recounts a light-hearted yet moving exchange. “When I approached him, I simply said, ‘Holy Father, I wish you could visit us in the Philippines. I come from Pampanga.’ He smiled and replied, ‘If God allows that.’”

Those who have worked with Pope Leo XIV during his time as a dicastery head note his level-headedness. “He listens, discerns, doesn’t react impulsively,” Tagle says. “His calm presence and ability to ask the right questions made him an effective contributor in Rome—even before becoming pope.”

Continuing Francis’ Legacy, With His Own Voice

While Pope Leo XIV follows in the footsteps of Pope Francis, he is no mere replica. “He treasures Pope Francis’ legacy—mercy, compassion, synodality,” says Cardinal David. “But he is his own person. He will build bridges in his own way, with his own depth.”

Tagle adds, “A resounding yes—he will continue the mission for the poor, for migrants, for the environment. But the approach will evolve. It’s not about cloning a papacy—it’s about advancing the mission with relevance.”

Faith in the Digital Age

Known for his presence in digital platforms, Cardinal Tagle admits he never planned it. “I’m an introvert. It’s tiring to be constantly watched or talked about. But it’s necessary. It allows the Church to enter the digital continent. That’s our new mission field.”

Tagle also raises concerns about technology, especially artificial intelligence. “AI-generated content has used my voice to endorse products and blessings. That’s deeply disturbing. We must ask: to whom do we report these violations of trust?”

Justice and Social Teaching at the Forefront

Cardinal Advincula sees great promise in Pope Leo XIV’s choice of name. “Leo is a name rooted in strong social teaching,” he explains. “He will not forget the world’s issues—poverty, injustice, exclusion. He sees these not outside but within the scope of pastoral care.”

This sentiment resonates with the new pope’s commitment to peacebuilding, unity, and a synodal Church. “He doesn’t shy away from the hard questions,” says Cardinal David. “He is just—but he is also merciful.”

Global and Multilingual Leadership

Pope Leo XIV brings with him a global perspective—American by birth, with roots in Quebec and strong ties to Latin America. Fluent in English, Spanish, French, and Italian, he is uniquely positioned to lead a truly global Church.

“This is the first time we have a pope so linguistically accessible,” notes Cardinal David. “He can listen in multiple languages. That alone is a bridge.”

Migrants and the Human Face of Compassion

For the millions of Filipino migrants around the world, Pope Leo XIV may be a voice of hope. “He understands migration—not just as a statistic, but as a lived reality,” says Tagle. “He sees migrants not as burdens, but as bearers of the faith.”

Cardinal David adds, “We need a leader whose heart beats for the migrant. Leo XIV is such a man. He refuses to associate migrants with criminality. He restores their dignity.”

A Sacred Responsibility Shared

As the conclave unfolded, Cardinal Advincula recalls a poignant moment. “Even before the name was announced, some cardinals said: ‘Whoever you are, I promise you my support and loyalty.’ That’s how the Church works—it is not one man’s burden. It is a shared mission.”

With the solemn papal inauguration scheduled for May 18 at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, the world awaits the beginning of a new chapter. One filled with gratitude, hope, and the unmistakable presence of the Holy Spirit.

In this sacred time, as Cardinal Tagle reflects, “Let us not leave the new pope alone. Let us walk with him, pray for him, and be the Church we are called to be—united in love, justice, and truth.”