From the moment Pope Leo XIV emerged from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, church observers have sought comparisons between the new, U.S.-born pontiff and his predecessor Pope Francis. Vatican experts who worked closely with Pope Francis have underlined the close relationship between the two men,

Pope Leo XIV is to hike the salaries of Vatican staff and officials, sources said Thursday. They said he meant to follow up on the change that began at the very beginning of his pontificate when he reinstated the Conclave bonus of 500 euros for all employees that had been abolished by his predecessor,

Ralph Fiennes felt ‘flattered’ when he learned Pope Leo XIV had watched Conclave - The film depicts the events of a conclave, which is a papal gathering where cardinal’s vote to elect the new pope.

A painting of Pope Leo XIV has been added to a mural by Sox Park just in time for the sold-out Mass and celebration in his honor Saturday at Rate Field.

Abuse experts and survivors express a mix of tentative hopes and low expectations for how Pope Leo might address discipling abusers, supporting victims and ensuring that the church is a safe environment for all.