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As anticipation filled the air, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti addressed a sea of tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square. He formally introduced the latest leader of the Catholic Church to both believers and onlookers alike.
American Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, ascended to the papal seat on May 8, 2025, succeeding the late Pope Francis following four rounds of voting by the College of Cardinals.
As the world begins to understand the attributes that contribute to Pope Leo XIV’s suitability for this esteemed position, one small community of approximately 10,000 residents stands proudly behind their newly elected leader.
“It’s an incredibly joyous day for all Catholics to welcome a new pope,” said Patrick Brennan, chair of Catholic Legal Studies at Villanova University. “I learned, much like everyone else, that it was a Villanova graduate who now holds this revered title.”
Pope Leo XIV proudly counts himself among the Class of 1977 from Villanova University, a private Catholic institution located just 12 miles from Philadelphia, currently home to around 6,700 undergraduate students and 3,100 graduate and law students.
“This is a hometown boy who not only succeeded but broke all molds by becoming our first American pope,” Brennan commented, reflecting on the historic moment.
Pope Leo XIV: A Historic First
The selection of Pope Leo XIV marks a pivotal moment in history as he becomes the first pope elected from the United States. Despite some skepticism about whether the Sacred College would approve an American candidate, Brennan expressed his excitement upon hearing Prevost’s name announced.
“The people I know who have interacted with him describe him as a remarkable priest,” Brennan shared. “He has been an outstanding member of the Augustinian order, and the responsibilities entrusted to him by Pope Francis reflect his significance in the Church.”
Prevost was appointed as a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023, marking a significant milestone in his ecclesiastical journey.
The Augustinian Order and its Legacy
The Augustinian religious order, originally known as the Order of Saint Augustine, has a rich heritage rooted in the teachings of Saint Augustine of Hippo, dating back to the 13th century. While the order may not be as widely recognized in the U.S. as the Jesuits, it plays a crucial role in the American Catholic Church.
“The Augustinians may lack the prominence of the Jesuits, yet they provide invaluable contributions to religious life here,” Brennan explained. “Pope Leo XIV’s election offers a powerful endorsement of their mission and efforts.”
In 1842, the Augustinians founded Villanova University in downtown Philadelphia before relocating to a beautiful suburban campus surrounded by lush greenery and stunning architecture.
The Villanova Experience and Papal Aspirations
Reflecting on the history of Villanova University, Brennan fondly described it as a small Catholic liberal arts college with high academic standards and a deep appreciation for the Catholic tradition. This environment fostered the growth of students like Pope Leo XIV.
“When he was at Villanova in the 1970s, the campus was vibrant, characterized by the Villanova spirit that continues to excite both students and alumni,” he said.
Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural moments as pope included a heartfelt prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary, revealing his intent to embrace traditional Catholic practices.
“This action served as a statement of his piety and dedication to Catholic traditions,” Brennan noted, emphasizing the continuity this shows with Pope Francis’s own devotion to the Virgin Mary.
A Symbol of Legacy and New Beginnings
Pope Francis famously shared his final wishes for burial soon after becoming the Bishop of Rome in 2013. He chose to be laid to rest in the Santa Maria Maggiore church, which resonates with his devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Brennan stated, “By choosing to pray the Hail Mary, Pope Leo XIV not only affirms continuity but also showcases his strong principles of piety.”
Moreover, the selection of the name Leo XIV signifies a deliberate and meaningful connection to the Church’s legacy. “By adopting this name, he aligns himself with a pope who passed away in 1903, a figure known for his profound understanding of humanity’s role within the Church’s mission in a rapidly evolving world,” Brennan concluded.
“Pope Leo XIV’s choice signals his commitment to carrying forward this legacy, providing insight and enlightenment to a world experiencing significant change.”
