A Midwest Pope? What’s it mean for Iowa Catholics?

Audio version:

For the first time in history, the Pope isn’t just from the United States, but from the midwest! Pope Leo XIV hails from Chicago, and this close proximity to Iowa could have an impact. Tom Chapman, Executive Director of The Iowa Catholic Conference discusses Pope Leo’s history, what it means for Iowans, and tackles the big question we all want to know: is Pope Leo going to make a Midwest visit?

Pope Leo XIV has been the center of attention for the last week, and many want to know what kind of Pope he will be. Will he be political, as was Pope Francis, or will he be more reserved? Will he break tradition or keep it? Will he change the Catholic Church or maintain the status quo? These are the questions we tackle, separating fact from fiction. 

In an unprecedented moment for the Catholic Church, the election of Pope Leo—an American born in Chicago—has sparked both global intrigue and regional pride, especially in the Midwest. Speaking with Justin Brady, Tom Chapman, Executive Director of the Iowa Catholic Conference, reflected on the unique significance of the Church selecting a U.S.-born pope for the first time. Chapman emphasized that while the Church is a global institution, there has historically been hesitance to concentrate influence in a global superpower like the United States.

Pope Leo’s long career abroad, particularly in Peru and Italy, helped mitigate concerns about national dominance and allowed him to be viewed as a globally-minded leader. Despite being well respected, his election came as a surprise to many observers due to a lack of frontrunner status going into the conclave. Chapman pointed out that Leo’s steady temperament and broad experience made him a consensus choice among cardinals, even as his rise was not widely anticipated.

Faith, Politics, and Catholic Social Teaching

Tom Chapman explored how Pope Leo might engage with political issues, noting that the Catholic Church traditionally positions itself outside of partisan frameworks. Rather than aligning closely with any political ideology, Pope Leo is expected to emphasize themes such as human dignity, workers’ rights, and social equity. These values reflect Catholic social teaching, which critiques both unchecked capitalism and authoritarian communism.

Chapman suggested that Pope Leo may diverge from Pope Francis in media engagement. Where Francis was known for his frequent and sometimes controversial interviews, Leo may prefer a quieter public profile. This approach, according to Chapman, aligns with the Pope’s more reserved and measured personality, which could help reduce media misinterpretation while focusing on long-term structural influence through Church leadership decisions.

What the Midwest (and the World) Can Expect Next

The implications of Pope Leo’s leadership extend beyond symbolic importance. Chapman highlighted that the new Pope is responsible for appointing every bishop globally, a responsibility that shapes the Church’s leadership and theological direction over time. Observers will be watching closely as Pope Leo begins to fill open positions at the Vatican and throughout the Church, signaling his priorities and preferences through those appointments.

Chapman noted that interest in the Church may be on the rise, not only due to the new papacy but also in response to broader societal shifts. He observed increased church attendance and a growing curiosity about spiritual matters, suggesting that many are seeking direction amid global instability. Pope Leo’s willingness to engage proactively with topics like artificial intelligence reflects a desire to ensure the Church remains relevant and ethically grounded in emerging cultural conversations.

Ultimately, Chapman conveyed a sense of optimism and trust in Pope Leo’s leadership. With strong roots in the Midwest and a global career that reflects cultural adaptability, Leo appears poised to offer a steady and thoughtful presence at the helm of the Catholic Church.