The Chicago-born pontiff is the first American to lead the Catholic Church, and while his positions on some of the church’s hot-button issues remain unclear, he has signaled continuity with his predecessor, who challenged norms, embraced migrants and the poor, and sought to build an inclusive church.

The elevation of Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost to pope earlier this month has been a point of pride for Chicagoland parishes, including in the north suburbs of Morton Grove, Park Ridge,

Pope Leo XIV made time in his busy schedule to welcome his friend Father Hugo Sánchez and Sánchez’s mother to the Vatican.

Pope Leo XIV called for peaceful communication and thanked journalists worldwide for sharing stories illuminating truth, humanity, and hope.

One of Pope Leo's older brothers is opening up in this week's issue of PEOPLE about the pontiff's childhood growing up on the South Side of Chicago as the youngest of three brothers — as well as the new pope's dedication to his faith and unique skills as a leader.

Pope Leo also celebrated Mother’s Day as jubilee bands and thousands of pilgrims created a festive atmosphere in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday.

The 73-year-old Florida man appears to be a staunch Trump supporter who uses his Facebook account to go on the attack.