The Roman Catholic Church made history this week with the election of Pope Leo, the first American to ascend to the papacy. The surprise choice has drawn reactions from around the world, including from Rev. Dr. Ivan Kaszczak, pastor of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Kerhonkson, NY.
In an interview shortly after the announcement, Rev. Kaszczak described his reaction as one of “pleasant surprise,” noting that many, including himself, did not expect the conclave to choose an American. “I really thought that they would not elect an American pope,” he said. “But first time in history. I hope it’s the providential hand of God saying, ‘You need this man.’”
Pope Leo, though born in Chicago, spent the majority of his life serving as a missionary in Peru. His background, according to Kaszczak, is both humbling and spiritually resonant. “He seems very humble, very talented, smart, thoughtful,” he noted. “He’s got a tough job.”
Pope Leo is a member of the Order of St. Augustine, the same religious order that once counted Martin Luther among its members. Drawing on the rich theological roots of the order, which traces back to St. Augustine of Hippo, Kaszczak emphasized the balance the new pope will need to strike: upholding doctrinal truths while remaining pastorally sensitive.
Reflecting on the legacy of Pope Francis, Kaszczak expressed hope that Pope Leo would continue a focus on the poor and marginalized. “There’s an old saying,” he said, “‘The Church is not a museum for saints; it’s a hospital for sinners.’” He hopes the new pontiff will embrace this mission with the same compassion and clarity as his predecessor.
However, Kaszczak also acknowledged the complexities facing the Church in a rapidly changing world. “Some people may want the Church to be progressive in allowing certain things it can never allow,” he said. “It’s the worst thing in the world to tell someone you disagree with them even though you love them. And that’s a tough thing, and that’s what the Pope has to do a lot.”
Central to his remarks was the theme of human dignity. “Every human being is invaluable,” Kaszczak stated. “For the Church, it’s not about using people to build some ideal society — it’s about saving and respecting each person.” He concluded with a reflection on the true mission of the Church under Pope Leo’s leadership: “Our goal is not to convert people. Our goal is to share the faith of Christ, help people, and then they decide what they want to do. That decision is utmost. You have to have freedom in order to be sincere and honest.”
Image: On May 8th, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., of the United States and Peru, was elected the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. (Credit: Vatican News)