On Sunday, September 14, Pope Leo XIV turns 70. Despite reaching this milestone, Pope Leo remains a relatively new figure on the papal stage. Even after 132 days in office, Vatican observers continue to speculate about the overarching direction of his pontificate. In several key areas, he has already diverged notably from his predecessor, Pope Francis (2013-2025).
In August, Leo took two extended retreats at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo near Rome — a location Pope Francis notably avoided. His choice of attire evokes a more traditional image of the papacy, aligning him visually with Benedict XVI rather than Francis. He dons the ornate papal stole, a symbol of grandeur rarely seen in recent years.
Leo is preparing to move into the Apostolic Palace — the top floor of the majestic building overlooking St. Peter’s Square. The residence had stood vacant for 12 years and required extensive renovation before his arrival.
Although Cardinal Robert Prevost’s election drew attention to his athletic interests, his age at the time — 69 — already placed him above the average for newly elected popes. Francis and Benedict were 73 and 78, respectively, while earlier pontiffs tended to be younger: John Paul II was 58, and both John Paul I and Paul VI were 65.
Sports-crazy and athletic
Leo has cultivated an image of physical vitality — bolstered by anecdotes from his former fitness trainer. “His enthusiasm for sports is very American: he plays tennis and is a devoted fan of the Chicago White Sox,” notes Catholic theologian Benjamin Dahlke, a professor at the University of Eichstätt and a leading German authority on the US Catholic landscape. Dahlke adds that Leo’s passion for sports makes him “relatable and human.”
He describes Leo as “highly professional,” someone who speaks with measured deliberation. “Everything feels intentional and well-considered, like a seasoned American executive.” The Pope, Dahlke observes, clearly possesses the skills required to lead a complex institution.
Many are still waiting for Leo to leave a distinct mark on Church leadership. “It’s difficult to pinpoint his stance or predict the trajectory of Church politics,” Dahlke says. He believes the conservative wing of the US Church is “not dissatisfied.” Leo places great importance on dignified Mass celebrations, and the bishops he has appointed to American dioceses are “certainly not left-leaning.”
Yet despite his traditional appearance, Leo has expressed support for synodal dialogue formats that include lay participation. He also welcomed the world’s most prominent Catholic LGBTQ+ pastor, US Jesuit James Martin, for a private audience.
Church historian Jörg Ernesti of Augsburg, Germany, notes that Leo has yet to make any bold moves. Some popes began their tenure with great momentum: Paul VI in 1963, for example. Francis also had “a very strong first year” in 2013, marked by key appointments and a high-profile visit to Lampedusa that drew international attention to the issue of migration.
“I haven’t seen that yet from Pope Leo XIV,” Ernesti says. He observes changes “more in tone and style.” While that’s “not insignificant,” the evolution of this pontificate remains to be seen.
Leo’s more reserved approach, marked by patience and dialogue, may reflect his unique background. Unlike many of his predecessors, he was not a bishop for decades prior to his election. An Augustinian friar, he spent 10 years as the highest-ranking member of the Augustinian order. His fellow friars describe his leadership style as one rooted in inquiry and attentive listening, rather than unilateral decision-making.
The Pope and US leadership
Leo XIV is a global citizen shaped by his American roots in Chicago, his years of service in Peru, and his time at the Roman headquarters of the Church. Yet the US influence is unmistakable, not least in his frequent use of English in public appearances.
Speculation emerged early on that Leo XIV might become a counterforce to US President Donald Trump. Some even suggested that the most powerful American in the world was now the Pope, with 1.4 billion Catholics under his spiritual leadership. US Vice President JD Vance visited Leo early in his papacy, fueling such conjecture.
This dynamic could prove fascinating. In recent months, the Trump administration’s aggressive, at times militant stance on immigration has strained its relationship with the generally Republican-aligned US bishops.
Meanwhile, Pope Leo has consistently emphasized themes of peace, urging global leaders to take responsibility for resolving conflicts and safeguarding world stability. Whether addressing Russia’s war in Ukraine or the volatile situation in the Holy Land, Leo has repeatedly made his voice heard.
The Pope received an invitation to visit his birthplace, Chicago, some time ago. Given the current political climate in the United States, a return to his homeland would be nothing short of compelling.
This article was originally written in German.
