Pope Leo XIV expressed his reflections on his role as pontiff in an interview released on his 70th birthday, highlighting the “huge learning curve” he has faced since his election. In excerpts from the interview, conducted by Vatican correspondent Elise Ann Allen, the Pope compared his rapid adaptation to the demands of leadership to jumping “in on the deep end of the pool very quickly.”
The Pope’s remarks included concerns regarding widening income disparities, specifically referencing the potential for Elon Musk to become the world’s first trillionaire. “If that is the only thing that has value anymore, then we’re in big trouble,” he stated, indicating his apprehension about societal values and economic inequality. This commentary came shortly after a light show over the Vatican, organized by Musk’s brother’s company, Nova Sky Stories, featured 3,000 drones displaying images from the Sistine Chapel and the face of former Pope Francis.
Personal and Cultural Insights
In the interview, Leo also shared his sense of identity as both American and Peruvian, owing to his dual citizenship and two decades of missionary work in Peru. This experience has deepened his appreciation for the Latin American church and the leadership of his predecessor, Pope Francis. When asked which national team he would support in a future World Cup, the Pope drew parallels to his upbringing in Chicago, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and friendly competition, regardless of sports loyalties.
Leo was appointed to a significant position in the Vatican by Pope Francis in 2023, which some view as a sign of Francis’ belief in Leo as a potential successor. Despite this, Leo admitted that he felt unprepared for the global responsibilities of the papacy. “There’s still a huge learning curve ahead of me,” he acknowledged, noting that while he has found his footing as a pastor, navigating the complexities of global leadership remains a challenge.
Celebrating 70 Years
The interview coincided with the Pope’s birthday celebrations at the Vatican. During his traditional noon blessing, he was greeted with “Happy birthday” banners in multiple languages, balloons, and enthusiastic supporters gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Among the crowd were groups of Peruvian believers, dressed in traditional attire, celebrating alongside the Pope.
“Dear friends, it seems you know today I have turned 70,” he remarked, eliciting cheers from the audience. “I thank the Lord, my parents, and all those who remembered me in their prayers.”
Elected in May 2023 at the age of 69, Leo XIV became the youngest pope since Pope John Paul II, who was elected in 1978 at 58. Observers in St. Peter’s Square expressed a mix of admiration and concern regarding the challenges the Pope faces during a particularly tumultuous period for the Catholic Church and global politics. Lorenzo Vecchio, a member of a Catholic university group, commented, “He definitely needs a lot of support, because he has to carry on a pontificate during a particularly difficult period, both for geopolitical issues and certainly for internal matters.”
Pope Leo XIV’s insights and reflections highlight both his personal journey and the broader challenges facing the Catholic Church today. As he embraces his role, the Pope continues to navigate the intersection of faith, culture, and social responsibility.