First American Pope, Leo XIV, Pledges to Serve Ordinary People

First Mass and Papal Pledge

• ⛪ Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff born in America, led his first mass in the Sistine Chapel, pledging to align himself with ordinary people and against the rich and powerful.
• ✝️ He spoke briefly in English to the cardinals, acknowledging the weight of his mission and expressing his reliance on their support.
• 🇺🇸 The new pontiff, formerly Cardinal Robert Provos from Chicago, was elected on the fourth ballot of the conclave.

Behind the Scenes of the Conclave

• 🤫 Inside information revealed the moments Cardinal Provos learned of his election, with Cardinal Dolan describing him slumping down as his name was repeatedly called.
• 🗳️ The cardinals emphasized that his nationality was not a factor, with the primary concern being his ability to unify Catholics worldwide.
• 🤣 Cardinal Dolan humorously noted that the food at the conclave was not great, joking it was an impetus for moving the election along quickly, and mentioned bringing his own peanut butter crackers.

Reactions to an American Pope

• 😲 The election of the first American pope was met with total shock and disbelief by many, including those in St. Peter Square and the CBS News team.
• 🤯 The conventional wisdom had been that an American pope would not be chosen, making the outcome unexpected and still sinking in for many.
• 🇺🇸 Cardinal Dolan suggested that this election signifies a coming-of-age for American Catholics, akin to getting car keys and a driver's license.

Papal Appearance and Future Implications

• 👋 Pope Leo XIV made a surprise appearance at the Vatican Palace, greeting faithful, posing for pictures, and giving blessings.
• 🌍 His election is seen as a historic development with potential implications for the Catholic Church in America and globally.
• 🏀 The conversation briefly touched on the Knicks' playoff series, with Maurice Dubois expressing hope to be home in time for a game.