"By taking this name, Pope Leo XIV clearly signals his priorities," professor says

For journalists reporting on the announcement of Chicago-born Robert Francis Prevost as the first pope from the U.S., Robert Orsi, professor of religious studies and history at Northwestern University has provided the following quote: 

Quote from Professor Orsi

“It is thrilling to have the first pope from the United States, Chicago-born Robert Francis Prevost. This is a historic day. Robert Francis Prevost was a favorite of Pope Francis, who made him cardinal only two years ago. The new pope’s namesake, Leo XIII, was known for his outspoken defense of the rights of working people to a living wage. By taking this name, Pope Leo XIV clearly signals his priorities. Pope Leo XIII was also profoundly wary of nationalists, especially those who would divide the church over political disputes. The Pope Leo of the early 21st century, who spent most of his 69 years outside the United States, appears already to be calling Catholics back to a truly global, truly open-hearted faith. And he deeply touched all Catholics by inviting them to join him in reciting the Hail Mary in the very first moments of his papacy.”

Orsi is a professor of religious studies and history, and Grace Craddock Nagle Chair in Catholic Studies at Northwestern. He can be reached at r-orsi@northwestern.edu or by contacting Stephanie Kulke at stephanie.kulke@northwestern.edu.