Confusion initially enveloped St. Peter’s Square as Cardinal Dominique Mamberti announced the election of Pope Leo XIV, with cheers erupting at “habemus papam” but the name itself lost in the noise. American pride surged among some, like Alec Maddox and his brothers, despite their limited knowledge of the new pontiff, who is viewed as a moderate favoring a pastoral approach. Opinions varied, with some expressing disappointment over the U.S. influence in the decision, while others remained hopeful for the new leadership’s direction.
