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Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York has described newly elected Pope Leo XIV as a “citizen of the world” committed to building bridges with global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, Dolan emphasized that the pontiff’s role is inherently about fostering connections, stating, “It should not startle us that we would look to Pope Leo as a bridge builder. That’s what the Latin word ‘pontiff’ means.”
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago, was elected as the first American pope following a swift conclave. His background includes missionary work in Peru and leadership within the Augustinian order, reflecting a blend of American roots and international experience.
In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized themes of unity, peace, and dialogue, calling for a Church that reaches out to all corners of the world. His election has been met with widespread approval, with leaders from various nations expressing hope for strengthened relations with the Vatican.
Despite differing views on certain policies, President Trump congratulated Pope Leo XIV, noting the significance of an American ascending to the papacy. This gesture could lead to a potential collaboration between the Vatican and the U.S. administration on shared global concerns.
Cardinal Dolan’s remarks suggest that Pope Leo XIV’s leadership will focus on inclusivity and diplomacy, aiming to bridge gaps not only within the Church but also between nations.
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