The pontificate of Pope Leo XIV officially began with his election on May 8, 2025, but it could be said that it is now that his most personal stage begins. His first months at the head of the Church have been marked by an agenda inherited from his predecessor and strongly conditioned by the magnitude of the Jubilee. This event has subjected the Pope to a frenetic rhythm of audiences, celebrations and speeches; a pastoral effort that Francis heroically sustained and that the new Pontiff assumed with generosity from the first day.
The impact of the Jubilee has undoubtedly been positive, with millions of pilgrims passing through Rome. However, the immense public dedication that such an event demands hardly leaves room for that other work of government that requires slow times of study, prayer and dispatch. Now, with the return to normality, this necessary space is opening up.
The challenges facing the Church are well known and resounded strongly in the general congregations prior to the last conclave. The silent persecution of Christians, the secularization of the West, the urgency of internal unity or the delicate Vatican finances are on the table. In addition, there are complex diplomatic issues, such as the renewal of agreements with China, or ecclesial issues, such as liturgical tensions in the Syro-Malabar Church.
These matters have both a technical and a deeply spiritual dimension. The Pope prays and has these intentions prayed for, but he also needs “hands” to execute them. Therefore, a cascade of appointments in the Curia is to be expected. Leo XIV is now putting together his trusted team, the “oarsmen” who will help him guide the ship in this new stage of navigation on the open sea.
