The world is getting its first in-depth look at the vision and personality of the new pope. In a wide-ranging Pope Leo XIV interview, published by Catholic news outlet Crux on September 14, 2025 — his 70th birthday — the pontiff shared his reflections on inequality, global polarization, and the urgent need for peace. He also spoke candidly about his priorities for the Catholic Church, his connection to Pope Francis’ legacy, and even his personal ties to both the United States and Peru.
This marks the first extended conversation Pope Leo XIV has given to any media outlet since his election on May 8, 2025, and it offers a revealing look at how he plans to guide the church during a time of global uncertainty.
Addressing Global Polarization and Division
One of the major themes of the Pope Leo XIV interview was the deepening polarization both in society and within the church. The pope expressed concern about the divisions tearing communities apart, warning that such polarization is benefiting very few while causing suffering for the many.
“We have to continue to remind ourselves of the potential that humanity has to overcome the violence and the hatred that is just dividing us more and more,” Leo said. “We live in times when polarization seems to be one of the words of the day, but it’s not helping anybody. Or if it’s helping anyone, it’s very few when everyone else is suffering.”
Leo attributed some of the polarization to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and a societal shift in how human life is valued. He also pointed to economic disparities as a driving force behind unrest and frustration.
Income Inequality and the Challenge of Billionaires
A key focus of the Pope Leo XIV interview was global inequality and the widening wealth gap between ordinary workers and the ultra-wealthy. The pope questioned whether the massive fortunes amassed by billionaires and even trillionaires — specifically mentioning Elon Musk — are compatible with human dignity and the common good.
“Add on top of that a couple of other factors, one which I think is very significant is the continuously wider gap between the income levels of the working class and the money that the wealthiest receive,” Leo said. “What does that mean and what’s that about? If that is the only thing that has value anymore, then we’re in big trouble.”
This concern echoes Pope Leo XIII’s historic encyclical Rerum Novarum (“On the Condition of Labor”), which addressed workers’ rights during the Industrial Revolution. Leo XIV revealed that he chose his papal name to honor Leo XIII and his defense of social justice, fair wages, and the right to unionize — principles he intends to uphold in the 21st century.
Synodality as a Solution for Division
In the interview, Pope Leo XIV spoke passionately about synodality, describing it as the “antidote” to division within the church. Rooted in the Latin American church tradition, synodality emphasizes listening, dialogue, and participation from all members of the church community — bishops, priests, missionaries, lay people, and families alike.
“It’s an attitude which I think can teach a lot to the world today,” Leo said. “If we listen to the gospel, and if we reflect upon it together, and if we strive to walk forward together, listening to one another, trying to discover what God is saying to us today, there is a lot to be gained for us there.”
He acknowledged that some church leaders feel threatened by synodality, mistakenly believing it undermines their authority. But, as Leo clarified, synodality does not equate to democracy — a form of governance that he noted is not perfect even in the secular world. Instead, synodality is about fostering unity and discernment guided by the Holy Spirit.
Peace in Ukraine and the Role of the Vatican
Another significant part of the Pope Leo XIV interview focused on global conflicts, particularly the ongoing war in Ukraine. Leo praised the Vatican’s efforts to remain neutral and to offer itself as a bridge for dialogue between warring parties.
While acknowledging that the prospect of the Vatican hosting direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine is unlikely at the moment, Leo expressed hope that sustained diplomatic pressure could eventually bring about negotiations.
“I think a number of different actors have to push hard enough to make the parties that are at war say, enough is enough, and let’s look for another way to solve our differences,” he said.
He also voiced concern that the United Nations has lost its ability to bring nations together on multilateral issues, underlining the need for renewed international collaboration.
A Pope with Global Roots
The Pope Leo XIV interview also revealed a more personal side of the new pontiff. Born in the United States but raised and ordained in Peru, Leo described himself as both American and Peruvian — a “both/and” identity that he believes helps him understand the global church.
He credited his years in Latin America with helping him appreciate the vision of Pope Francis, who placed strong emphasis on dialogue, accompaniment, and a church that goes out to the margins.
And while he lightheartedly admitted to being a lifelong fan of the Chicago White Sox, he said that as pope he is “a fan of all teams,” joking that when the U.S. faces Peru in the World Cup, he will cheer for Peru “just because of affective bonds.”
A Missionary Pope for the 21st Century
Throughout the Pope Leo XIV interview, one theme was clear: Leo sees himself as a missionary pope tasked with building bridges, promoting dialogue, and guiding the church through turbulent times.
“The most fundamental role of the pope,” he said, “is to confirm others in their faith.”
He admitted that there is still a “huge learning curve” in adjusting to the demands of being a global leader but expressed confidence that the church can play a constructive role in healing divisions in society and inspiring hope for peace.
Looking Ahead
The full interview will appear in Vatican journalist Elise Ann Allen’s upcoming biography, Leo XIV: Citizen of the World, Missionary of the XXI Century, which will be published in Spanish on September 18, 2025, with English and Portuguese editions set for release in early 2026.
For Catholics worldwide, this Pope Leo XIV interview provides valuable insight into the pope’s priorities and offers a hopeful message: that unity, dialogue, and justice remain at the center of the Catholic Church’s mission.
Source: Religion News Service
