We’re all celebrating after the historic election of our first-ever American Pope, Leo XIV. Guess what? Fr. Rocky joined Morning Air to share 10 rock-solid reasons why Cardinal Robert Prevost was a smart pick for the papacy.
1. Quick Election = Church Unity
Within 48 hours, the cardinals picked him. No drama. No division. Just Holy Spirit-level agreement. That’s a huge deal in a world obsessed with polarization.
2. Decades of Dedication
Pope Leo has been a priest for 43 years and committed to religious life since he was 18, as an Augustinian.
3. Big Love for the Blessed Mother
His first papal prayer was a Hail Mary. 💙
He even mentioned Our Lady of Pompeii (most venerated image in Italy!) and has a deep devotion to Our Lady of Good Counsel. A Marian man is a man of the Church.
4. He Opened with Jesus’ Own Words
On the balcony, his first words: “Peace be with you.” 🕊️ That’s a Christ-centered start.
5. Trusted by Pope Francis
He worked closely with Francis, leading the Vatican dicastery that appoints bishops worldwide. That means continuity + trust.
6. Global Experience = Global Perspective
He ran the Augustinians (2,000 priests worldwide), served in rich & poor regions alike. He understands suburban parishes and third-world villages with no roads or plumbing.
7. Language Skills on Point
He’s fluent in English, Italian, Spanish, and even Latin + French. That’s super helpful when you’re shepherding 1.4 billion souls.
8. He Knows the Vatican
Not an outsider. Not just an insider. He’s both. He knows the ropes and already has Vatican experience.
9. First-World Missionary Heart
He left America to serve in developing countries… bringing humility, perspective, and credibility. That’s Christ-like leadership.
10. Smart, Practical, and Chicago Tough
He’s a math undergrad and has a Doctorate in Canon Law, while growing up in gritty Chicago winters. He’s grounded, educated, and probably unbeatable in tennis. 🎾
💬 Final Thought from Fr. Rocky:
“No matter who the pope is: we love him, we pray for him, and we obey him.”
If Fr. Rocky could say one thing to Pope Leo XIV, it’d be:
👉 “Please join me tonight on the Family Rosary Across America.” 😇📿
Can you imagine the Pope praying with us live on air? 🥹
Viva il Papa!
Now let’s keep him in our prayers and maybe…maybe get ready for a papal homecoming in Chicago soon? 🙏
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