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White Smoke - Pope Leo XIV the American Pope

White Smoke - Pope Leo XIV the American Pope

By: Caloroga Shark Media
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 With white smoke clearing and history made, our coverage now follows Robert Francis Prevost—the first American ever elected pope—as he begins his reign as Pope Leo XIV.
Our daily bulletins track this unprecedented pontificate from his first blessing to his installation mass, analyzing how this Chicago-born, Peru-naturalized former Vatican insider will lead 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.

What does his choice of the name "Leo" signal? How will his two decades in Latin America shape his global vision? Will he extend Francis's inclusive approach or chart a new course blending American pragmatism with Latin American experience?

As he confronts declining Western attendance, explosive growth in the Global South, and calls for reform, WHITE SMOKE delivers essential daily insights into this pivotal moment when ancient tradition meets modern challenge under unexpected but historic leadership.

Join us for daily episodes wherever you get your podcasts.

Our series will now document the crucial early days of this pontificate as the new Holy Father establishes the tone and direction of his leadership. We'll examine:

The significance of his chosen papal name and what it signals about his priorities and vision

His first address from the loggia of Saint Peter's Basilica and the themes he emphasizes

The ceremonial mass where he'll formally begin his ministry

The composition of his initial leadership appointments and Vatican restructuring

His first audiences with world leaders and initial diplomatic engagements

Early indications of whether he'll continue Pope Francis's path of greater inclusion or chart a different course

We'll bring you exclusive interviews with Vatican insiderstheological experts, and ordinary Catholics from around the world reacting to this historic transition.

From the elaborate installation ceremonies to the first major decisions of this pontificate, we'll provide context for understanding these ancient traditions alongside the very modern challenges facing Catholicism today: declining attendance in Western nations, growth in the Global South, ongoing abuse scandals, calls for doctrinal reform, and the Church's role in global crises.

Join us as we witness the beginning of this new chapter in the world's oldest continuously functioning institution and explore what it means for Catholics and non-Catholics alike in our rapidly changing world.Caloroga Shark Media Christianity Politics & Government Spirituality
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Episodes
  • Pope Leo's Sunday Mass (recap) and what happens next on the schedule?

    Pope Leo's Sunday Mass (recap) and what happens next on the schedule?
    May 12 2025
    Newly elected Pope Leo the Fourteenth delivered an impassioned plea against warfare during his initial Sunday appearance at Vatican City, urging international leaders to pursue peaceful resolutions.

    Addressing ongoing global hostilities, the recently chosen Catholic leader advocated for permanent reconciliation in Ukraine, demanded humanitarian pauses in Gaza, and expressed satisfaction regarding Saturday's diplomatic breakthrough between India and Pakistan.

    The pontiff described feeling "profound anguish" over Gaza's situation, voiced optimism for sustainable Indo-Pakistani relations, and advocated for "genuine, enduring reconciliation" in Ukraine.
    Before assembled faithful in Saint Peter's Square, he led the traditional Regina Caeli prayer honoring Mary.
    Speaking from Saint Peter's Basilica's main balcony, he declared: "Eight decades since World War Two's conclusion, humanity confronts fragmented global warfare.

    "Addressing world leaders, I echo timeless wisdom: 'cease all conflicts.'"

    Continuing his address, the pontiff stated: "Ukrainian suffering weighs heavily upon me. May genuine, sustainable resolution emerge swiftly through every available channel. Release all captives. Reunite families separated by conflict."
    Regarding Middle Eastern tensions, he expressed: "Gaza's circumstances cause me profound distress. Immediate humanitarian access must resume. All detained individuals require liberation."

    He acknowledged positive developments: "Saturday's India-Pakistan de-escalation brings hope. May forthcoming dialogue produce enduring stability."
    …

    The pontiff has maintained an intensive schedule, celebrating Mass Friday in the Sistine Chapel before addressing cardinals Saturday.

    During Saturday's gathering, he characterized himself as an unexpected papal selection, pledging to honor Francis's "valuable contributions." Leo announced plans to advance his predecessor's missionary-focused initiatives, emphasizing enhanced ecclesiastical collaboration and commitment to society's vulnerable populations.

    The pontiff declared his dedication to progressive reform, referencing Pope Francis's influential 2013 publication. He specifically noted several key priorities from this text: expanded collaborative leadership structures, devotional traditions among the faithful, compassionate ministry toward society's forgotten members, and bold engagement with modern cultural challenges.

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    8 mins
  • Why Leo? The Powerful History Behind Pope Leo XIV's Chosen Name

    Why Leo? The Powerful History Behind Pope Leo XIV's Chosen Name
    May 11 2025
    As Pope Leo XIV prepares for his first public Angelus blessing, we explore the legacy behind his chosen name. From Leo the Great to Leo the Thirteenth, what does “Leo” signal about his vision for the papacy? We unpack the theological weight and symbolic power of one of the Church’s oldest names—and what it might reveal about this quiet, humble American pope.

    Plus: fresh insight from his brother, who says, “He won’t stay silent for long.”
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    11 mins
  • Villanova’s Pope Leo XIV : Campus Cheers, Knicks Playoff Hopes and Cubs or White Sox?

    Villanova’s Pope Leo XIV : Campus Cheers, Knicks Playoff Hopes and Cubs or White Sox?
    May 10 2025
    Villanova University erupted with pride as alumnus Robert Prevost became Pope Leo XIV. In this episode, we explore the campus reaction, his Villanova roots, and how Knicks fans are reading divine signs in the playoffs. Also: the surprising sports debate shaking Chicago—was the new pope really a Cubs fan or a Sox man? And farewell to the surprise social media stars of the conclave… the Vatican seagulls.
    Show More Show Less
    9 mins

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