Cardinal Dolan Commends Pope Leo XIV as a Global Connector, Aims to Foster Relationships with World Leaders

This week, several high-ranking U.S. Catholic bishops and cardinals reflected on the spiritual journey leading to the election of Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York praised the new pontiff, heralding him as a “citizen of the world” who intends to forge connections with President Donald Trump and other global leaders.

The six esteemed clergymen shared their insights on the significance of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy. They noted that the rapid conclave illustrated the unity among the cardinals. These remarks were made at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, held at the Pontifical North American College in Rome.

A Bridge Builder in Papal Leadership

When asked about the pope’s potential role as a counterbalance to Trump, Dolan responded, “It should not startle us that we would look to Pope Leo as a bridge builder. That’s what the Latin word ‘pontiff’ means, he’s a bridge builder.” He emphasized that the pope’s aim is not to position himself against any specific leader, asserting that he seeks engagement with all global heads of state.

Dolan continued, “Will he want to build bridges to Donald Trump? I suppose, but he would want to build bridges with the leader of every nation. So I don’t think at all my brother Cardinals would have thought of him as a counterweight to any one person.” This statement showcases the inclusive vision that Pope Leo XIV embodies for his papacy.

American Roots and Global Footprint

Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost, marks a notable moment in history as the first American pope. His election has prompted reflections on his Chicago origins. During the announcement, attendees celebrated with American-themed songs like “Born in the U.S.A.” and “American Pie,” while the stage prominently displayed both the American flag and the Vatican flag.

Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, the Archbishop emeritus of Galveston-Houston, conveyed a sense of pride regarding the election of an American pope, highlighting the significance this holds for American Catholics and the broader Church community.

A Global Citizen with a Missionary Heart

“Pope XIV is really a citizen of the entire world, since he has spent so much of his ministry on missionary work and zeal for Christ in South America,” DiNardo remarked. He affirmed that while the new pope remains distinctly American, he also champions a universal vision. Dolan supported this sentiment, noting that Pope Leo XIV spent three decades in Peru, engaging in impactful missionary efforts.

“He’s a citizen of the world. He reminds us that we all have our true citizenship in heaven, as St. Paul taught us. That is his role as universal pastor; where he comes from is sort of now a thing of the past,” Dolan stated, highlighting the pope’s broader spiritual focus.

A Unique Blend of Leadership Styles

Various bishops have compared Pope Leo XIV to a blend of Popes Francis and Benedict, emphasizing his combination of intellectual rigor and pastoral warmth. His background in Augustinian thought and canon law may provide a unique framework for addressing contemporary challenges facing the Church. These qualities will likely play a significant role in shaping his approach to papal duties.

Significance of the Name

The choice to adopt the name “Leo” carries deep historical significance, alluding to both Pope Leo the Great and Pope Leo XIII. This decision appears to signal Pope Leo XIV’s intention to stress leadership and strong social teaching throughout his papacy.

DiNardo noted the historical context, mentioning that Leo the Great led the Church during tumultuous times in the fifth century, working to restore order amid chaos in Rome. He stated, “He preached Christ crucified, and he preached him as truly Son of God. I believe Pope Leo XIV is a wise, wise man; he selects a name connected to figures who can guide us in social doctrine and in understanding the essence of Jesus Christ.”

A Unifying Experience for the Bishops

The bishops underscored the spiritual, emotional, and symbolic importance of the conclave that birthed Pope Leo XIV. They characterized it as a deeply prayerful and unifying experience. Notably, the United States had ten voting cardinals, representing the second-highest number from any nation involved in the conclave.

Other prominent voices included Cardinal Joseph Tobin, Archbishop of Newark; Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago; Cardinal Wilton Gregory, Archbishop Emeritus of Washington; Cardinal Robert McElroy, Archbishop of Washington; and Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the U.S.A.

Reflections on Simplicity

When addressed about the reportedly simple meals that cardinals received during the conclave, Dolan humorously remarked, “Let’s just say it was a good, good, good impetus to get this over with.” This comment reflects a lighthearted perspective on the significant process of selecting a new pontiff.

A New Chapter for the Catholic Church

As the Church embarks on this new chapter under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV, clergy and laypeople alike are hopeful for a renewed focus on unity and dialogue among all nations. His papacy represents not just a historic milestone for American Catholics, but a global opportunity for building bridges across divides.