Pope Leo XIV

Contrary to common numbering, there has never been a Pope Leo XIV. This stems from historical confusion and a fascinating, albeit unfounded, rumour surrounding the potential successor to Pope Pius XII. The pontificate following Pius XII was, of course, that of Pope John XXIII in 1958. However, during the tumultuous period following Pius XII’s death and the lead-up to the conclave, a persistent rumour circulated, particularly in some Catholic circles, that Cardinal Giacomo Lercaro of Bologna was heavily favored to be elected and intended to take the name Leo XIV.

Cardinal Lercaro was a highly respected figure known for his progressive views and pastoral sensitivity. He was a vocal proponent of social justice and actively engaged in dialogue with intellectuals and artists, seeking to bridge the gap between the Church and contemporary culture. These qualities, coupled with the anxieties of the Cold War era and the perceived need for a Pope who could adapt the Church to the modern world, fueled speculation about his potential election.

The expectation that he would choose the name Leo XIV, if elected, was linked to a perceived historical imperative. Following Pope Leo XIII (1878-1903), known for his encyclical Rerum Novarum addressing social issues, there was a sense among some that the Church needed another “Leo” to continue that tradition of social engagement and intellectual openness. Leo XIII’s pontificate was marked by attempts to navigate the challenges of industrialization and modern political thought, and a subsequent Leo XIV was seen as a possible symbol of a continued effort to address contemporary problems.

However, Cardinal Lercaro was not elected. The conclave of 1958 ultimately chose Cardinal Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, who took the name John XXIII. John XXIII, though perhaps not initially perceived as a radical reformer, would soon demonstrate a willingness to innovate and steer the Church towards greater openness and engagement with the world, most notably through the convocation of the Second Vatican Council.

Despite the lack of a real Pope Leo XIV, the anticipation surrounding a potential pontificate of that name highlights the hopes and anxieties prevalent within the Church during the mid-20th century. It reflects a desire for a leader who could address the challenges of the modern world, embrace social justice, and engage in constructive dialogue with contemporary thought. While the title remained hypothetical, the “Pope Leo XIV” rumour serves as a testament to the evolving expectations placed on the papacy and the ongoing quest to reconcile faith with the realities of a changing world. It also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of papal elections and the profound impact a single individual can have on the course of the Catholic Church.