AS A KID, he set up an ironing board as an impromptu altar and made his two brothers attend Mass in their southside Chicago home. They teased, “You’re going to be Pope.” And today Robert “Bob” Prevost is just that, Pope Leo XIV.
I love that story, among the many reported since Prevost was selected by a Conclave of Cardinals to lead the Roman Catholic Church. He is the 267th pope and the first American elected to that powerful position.
From everything I’ve read and heard in media reports, he seems a good choice. His brothers say he will address tough issues (like immigration) and will bring people together. I’ve heard the words “building bridges” used often when referencing Pope Leo XIV. I am hopeful this man, who speaks five languages and who spent most of his church service in Peru, can use his global experiences and perspectives to make a positive difference in the world.
Oh, how we need a leader like him, described as humble, intelligent, calm, a good listener, unafraid to criticize, to be a voice of reason.
Can he be our President?
© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
No, Leo is already in service to a higher authority. But it would be good if our president tried, just a little, to be as good a person as is Leo.
Exactly my point, that our President could try to be a little (OK, a lot) like Leo in treating people with care, compassion and dignity.
oh, if only…). I do like how he truly seems to be a man of the people, which he has said why he chose the name he did as he papal name. it makes me hopeful. and the fact that the administration does not like his views on being fair and welcoming to immigrants
I had the same thoughts as you, Beth.
I’d vote for him!!!
Me, too!
Oh, Audrey, I hear your plea. How I want a president who can be called a bridge, a man who listens, a man who cares. Hopefully Pope Leo can serve as an example to all of us as we weather the kind of leader we have now. I pray our next leader, our next president, is his complete opposite.
Thanks for this blog. It told just a touch of his story, gave us a shining hope, and spoke my words and fears for me. My Best
I hear ya, Sheri. That is my hope, too, that Leo can be an example to all of us. I also hope for better leadership, where compassion and care are present.
Separation of church and state — ever heard of it?!
Oh, Diane, of course I’ve heard of separation of church and state and believe in that. I wasn’t being serious in that closing question and thought readers would understand. Apparently not everyone did. My point is that I would like to see some of the qualities that Pope Leo possesses in the Presidency.
He seems like such a kind man and my Catholic friends are all very pleased.
Yes, he does seem kind and has a sense of humor to boot.