From Chicago to the Vatican: Bishop Paprocki praises election of Pope Leo XIV

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Bishop Thomas John Paprocki called it a joyful and historic moment after Cardinals elect the first American to lead the the Roman Catholic Church.

Bishop Paprocki shared his reaction Friday following the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. Prevost, a native of Chicago and fellow White Sox fan, was chosen by the College of Cardinals in Rome — a decision Paprocki said could revitalize American Catholicism.

“People will be able to identify with him," said Bishop Paprocki.

Although Paprocki admitted he doesn’t know Pope Leo XIV personally, he pointed to shared experiences: both studied in Rome, earned doctorates in canon law, and grew up on the south side of Chicago. The bishop also emphasized the new pope’s long service abroad, especially in Peru.

“He spent most of his priesthood in South America,” Paprocki explained. “I would think the College of Cardinals would see we're not electing an American, as much as we're electing an international figure in the Catholic Church."

Paprocki also reflected on the symbolism behind the new pope’s name, drawing a connection to Pope Leo XIII, known for promoting Catholic social teaching, and Pope Leo I — “Leo the Great” — who famously confronted Attila the Hun with spiritual strength rather than military might.

“The name Leo in Latin means lion, and I think our new Pope Leo XIV intends to be a lion of a pope,” Paprocki said.

The bishop watched the historic moment unfold live on his laptop during a car ride back from Omaha, where he had attended another bishop’s installation.

As for whether Pope Leo XIV will visit Illinois? Paprocki is hopeful.

“Pope John Paul II came to Chicago in 1979. I was there for that very memorable occasion. So being a native of Chicago and American, I would hope he would do a tour in the United States."