Article by Phoenix writer Natalie Lezcano ’26:
On May 8, Kellenberg Memorial High School students and faculty buzzed with excitement as the papal conclave announced the name of the new pope, Pope Leo XIV.
In the hour leading up to the announcement, a few faculty members were granted the opportunity to host a watch party, where they provided useful information on the papal candidates, and highlighted Pope Francis’ achievements and legacy. This live stream was broadcasted to all classes, which increased students’ enthusiasm and anticipation. Junior Lucy Carey shared, “I am very excited that we have a new pope! I am looking forward to seeing in which direction he will be taking the church.”
The Pope was officially announced during period 9, relieving students and teachers of what felt like hours of suspense. To the surprise and delight of many, Pope Leo XIV was revealed to be an American, which makes him the first North American Pope in the history of the Church.
However, his nationality is not the only interesting thing about him. As Father Daniel Griffin S.M. stated, “I think it’s amazing to see the Pope being American, but he also belongs to the Augustinians, and he was a missionary for many years in Peru. He embodies the word ‘Catholic’, which means ‘Universal.’”
On the evening he was elected, Pope Leo XIV asked the crowd in Vatican City to join him in reciting the Hail Mary, which shows his dedication to the Blessed Mother, and provides hope for the future of the Catholic Church.