This past Sunday Pope Leo XIV celebrated his inaugural mass in St. Peter’s Basilica. marking the beginning of his papacy with great solemnity and tradition. Thousands of faithful gathered within the historic basilica, while millions tuned in from around the world to witness the occasion.
Pope Leo XIV was elected head of the Roman Catholic Church on May 8, 2025 following a two-day conclave of the bishops. He succeeds Pope Francis who passed away on April 21, 2025 at the age of 88 and was honored with a Requiem Mass attended by world leaders and thousands of mourners. Unlike most popes who are traditionally laid to rest in a Vatican Grotto beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, Francis chose to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, a historic church long recognized as a center of Marian devotion. He also opted to forgo a grand funerial procession, preferring his coffin just to be carried quietly and respectfully through the city of Rome.
It is thought that Pope Leo XIV is prepared to continue many of his predecessor’s priorities, including a commitment to Vatican II reforms, environmental advocacy, and social justice. However, his methodical and practical outlook contrasts with the spontaneous and intuitive approach of Pope Francis. This difference in these two personal temperaments suggests that Pope Leo XIV may take a more reserved stance on certain social issues of the day.
Traditionally, popes have been primarily Italian and their influence has largely centered around Europe. The election of Pope Leo XIV is a historic milestone, as he becomes the first U.S. pope. His rise reinforces connections between the Vatican and the Americas, where many nations face the challenges of poverty, migration and displacement. His leadership may bring greater attention to the struggles and aspirations of Catholics across the region.
 #42 WED VIR 9/14/1955 Pope Leo XIV |
Pope Leo XIV was born on a Wednesday in Virgo. With Mercury as the ruler of his INNER and OUTER Selves, he is endowed with a sharp intellect and strong communication skills. Before being selected by the Conclave of Cardinals to head the church, Cardinal Robert Prevost served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and the President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. These high administrative roles brought him recognition and influence.
It is the Mercury energy of learning and analysis which captures his essence. He studied mathematics at Villanova University before pursuing theology and canon law at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas. He currently speaks English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese, and he also reads Latin and German. Pope Leo is not as outwardly charismatic as Pope Francis, but he values dialogue, intellectual engagement, and bridge-building.
Early in his priesthood, Pope Leo XIV engaged in missionary work in Peru, serving in the communities of Chulucanas and Trujillo, where he worked closely with locals and trained future clergy. It was also here that he deepened his commitment to social outreach and service to the poor. Known for visiting soup kitchens and caring about those affected by COVID, this hands-on experience grounded his faith and attuned him to the struggles of the people.
Leo XIV’s ability to bridge divides, educate, and engage with the modern world will define his Mercurial leadership style, positioning him as a voice of reason, wisdom, and clarity in a rapidly evolving era. Building upon his past cooperation with Pope Francis, he is expected to champion the issues of social justice, poverty, and climate change. His leadership will seek to balance tradition with reform, guiding the Church through uncertain waters with a steady hand.
