John Morales and Rome correspondent Ashley Noronha updated you on everything you need to know about our new Holy Father. He’s already been very busy!
Pope Leo XIV has begun his pontificate with a deeply pastoral tone that has everyone: from pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square to cab drivers in Rome paying attention. So far, he has:
🛐 Visited an ancient Marian shrine outside Rome.
💐 Prayed at St. Mary Major, in front of Pope Francis’ tomb.
📣 Led his first Regina Caeli in St. Peter’s Square to thunderous applause and teary-eyed crowds shouting “Viva il Papa!”
People are buzzing with hope and even taking spontaneous selfies in front of his childhood home in Dolton, Illinois (because yes, the Pope is from the Midwest!).
🚕 That Time the Pope Couldn’t Get a Taxi…
This one’s gold: Ashley shared a story from a friend who saw Cardinal Leo (before he was elected pope) struggling to hail a taxi… in full regalia, no less. He helped him find the taxi stand. Later he realized: That was the last taxi ride Pope Leo XIV ever took as a cardinal. 🥲
Meeting the Media
Pope Leo addressed journalists on Monday with deep gratitude for their dedication through Holy Week, the passing of Pope Francis, the conclave, and now a new pontificate.
His message:
🛑 Say no to the “war of words and images.”
🕊️ Embrace truth with love in all communication.
🗣️ Called for the release of imprisoned journalists.
🔥 Reminded us: “Only informed individuals can make free choices.”
Ashley, who was in the room, said the mood turned from polite claps to enthusiastic applause after one person shouted “Viva il Papa!”
🙏 Regina Caeli + Good Shepherd Sunday = Divine Timing
Ashley watched the Regina Caeli live and said it felt like a Mother’s Day “love fest” in the square. Pope Leo had just celebrated Mass underground at the Vatican Grottos, right near St. Peter’s tomb.
Highlights:
🎶 The Pope’s voice was melodious. The crowd started singing with him… then just listened in awe.
📆 It all happened on Good Shepherd Sunday and the World Day of Prayer for Vocations
🗣️ Echoed JPII’s classic: “Be not afraid.”
🛡️ Papal Style: Coat of Arms That Preach
Let’s talk symbolism, because this Pope’s coat of arms is preaching without words:
🌸 Lily (Fleur-de-lis) = Virgin Mary + Holy Trinity
❤️ Heart pierced by arrow = Our longing souls wounded by divine love (St. Augustine-style)
📖 Book = Sacred Scripture + Augustine’s wisdom
All of this shows a Pope who’s deeply Marian, totally rooted in theology, and ready to shepherd with heart and smarts.
💬 Relevant Radio’s Mission
Ashley signed off with blessings from Roma and a beautiful reflection on Pope Leo’s reminder: Communication creates culture. And at Relevant Radio, we’re part of that mission: broadcasting the truth with love, every single day. 🎙️❤️
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