Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, said he expects Pope Leo XIV "feels an obligation," to speak to what he called the issues of the day, amid "real challenges globally."

In his first days as pope, Leo XIV has struck many as an unassuming man of quiet warmth and deeply rooted identity. A visit to the part of Chicago where the first American Pontiff was raised gives an idea of how he got that way.

Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich participated in the conclave that elected Robert Prevost to lead the Catholic Church as pope.

The election of Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, as the new pontiff has delighted Catholics and officials alike.

Pope Leo XIV has confirmed his favourite football team is Roma after engaging with a fan. The first US leader of the global Catholic Church responded to a Giallorossi supporter by repeating the popular phrase in the capital “Forza Roma!”

Many sites associated with past popes have become museums or holy destinations for the faithful. But Pope Leo XIV’s childhood church closed years ago.

A special prayer was delivered at Holy Name Cathedral Sunday for Pope Leo XIV. The church held its first Sunday mass since the pope was elected on Thursday. Many who attended said they are praying for unity.

The contrast between President Trump and Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV couldn’t be more stark, politically, personally, or in their world views.