By: The Christian Herald
May 8, 2025
VATICAN CITY — In a moment watched by millions across the globe, white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney earlier today, signaling the successful election of a new pope. Soon after, Cardinal Tommaso Vigliotti of Milan, Italy, emerged on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as Pope John Paul IV, the 267th successor of Saint Peter.
As the crowd below chanted “Viva il Papa,” and church bells rang throughout Rome, the newly elected pontiff offered his first blessing, Urbi et Orbi—to the city and the world. A man known for his theological depth, quiet humility, and pastoral heart, Pope John Paul IV now begins what will likely be one of the most watched papacies in modern history.
His election follows the death of Pope Francis on April 26, who served for over 12 years and left a significant imprint on the global Church. As the first Jesuit pope and the first from Latin America, Francis endeavored to make the Church more accessible to the marginalized and more attentive to the global south. Now, the papal mantle has passed to a new generation.
A Pope of Prayer and Quiet Reform
At 68, Pope John Paul IV enters the papacy with decades of experience serving as a pastor and theologian. Fluent in Italian, Latin, English, and French, he was known in Vatican circles as a bridge-builder between tradition and renewal. As Milan’s archbishop, he oversaw a return to Eucharistic-centered worship and a passionate outreach to migrants and refugees. His choice of name—John Paul—echoes his admiration for the legacies of Pope John Paul II and John Paul I.
In his first brief address, the new pope said simply, “Let us walk together—young and old, joyful and burdened—as disciples of Jesus Christ. The world needs the Gospel more than ever. Let us bring it with courage and tenderness.”
The choice of John Paul IV seems to signal the College of Cardinals’ desire for continuity with Pope Francis’s pastoral approach and a renewed focus on doctrine and unity in an increasingly polarized Church.
American Christians React
Catholics and Protestants watched with great interest in the United States as the new pope was announced. Although The Christian Herald is a non-Catholic publication, the papacy holds immense global significance, and the election of a new pope often inspires reflection throughout the broader Christian world.
Rev. Mark DeLeon, pastor of GraceLife Church in Sugar Land, Texas, shared his thoughts: “As an evangelical Christian, I don’t follow the pope as a spiritual leader, but I do believe God uses leaders across the body of Christ to influence our world. I pray Pope John Paul IV will be a man of integrity who champions biblical truth and peace.”
Similarly, Sister Maria Delacruz of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston called the moment “a new chapter of hope.” “We thank God for Pope Francis and pray for Pope John Paul IV. This is a time for healing in the Church, and I believe the Holy Spirit is guiding us.”
Many younger Catholics, especially in Texas, expressed cautious optimism. Jennifer Rios, a senior at the University of Dallas, said, “I was hoping for a pope who would continue Francis’ concern for the poor but also give clearer moral guidance. From what I’ve heard about Vigliotti, he could be that person.”
Challenges Ahead: Unity, Secularism, and Scandal
The new pope inherits a Church at a crossroads. While Catholicism remains the largest Christian denomination in the world, it faces steep challenges in Europe and North America, including declining attendance, priest shortages, and growing secularism.
Within the Church, divisions between conservative and progressive camps have deepened, especially regarding issues such as women’s roles, LGBTQ inclusion, liturgical styles, and relations with the Latin Mass community. Pope Francis sought to balance these tensions, but many believe the new pope must take clearer doctrinal stands without alienating millions of faithful.
Scandals involving clergy abuse continue to damage the Church’s credibility. While reforms have been implemented, victims’ advocates argue that more transparency and accountability are needed. Pope John Paul IV, as Archbishop of Milan, reportedly met personally with abuse survivors and implemented strict diocesan guidelines. His experience may signal a more hands-on approach to these complex issues.
A Global Church and a New Mission
More than 1.3 billion Catholics live on every continent, with the most significant growth occurring in Africa and Asia. The new pope will strengthen the Church’s voice in these fast-growing regions while not neglecting the declining Christian presence in Europe and North America.
He will also need to engage with world leaders on matters of peace, poverty, human rights, and climate change. While Francis was outspoken on these fronts, Pope John Paul IV’s tone is expected to be more contemplative. Vatican insiders have described him as “deeply prayerful and deliberate.”
His theological writings have emphasized the centrality of the Eucharist, the sacredness of life from conception to natural death, and the importance of family as a reflection of divine love. These stances resonate with American Christians prioritizing traditional moral values.
Reflections for the Christian Herald Audience
For Christians outside the Catholic tradition, a papal transition offers a time to reflect on the universal body of Christ. While we may differ in doctrine, we are united by a shared belief in Jesus as Savior and Lord.
Dr. Naomi Clarke, professor of Church History at Southwestern Theological Seminary, noted: “The pope’s election is more than a Catholic event. It is a global Christian moment. Whether we agree with every detail of Roman Catholic teaching or not, we should pray for this man who now has a massive influence over the spiritual lives of millions.”
Indeed, Scripture urges Christians across denominational lines to pray for their leaders (1 Timothy 2:1–2). As Pope John Paul IV assumes this monumental task, our prayers should be with him—that he would lead with wisdom, compassion, and bold faith in the risen Christ.
What Comes Next?
The days will be filled with ceremonial events, including a formal installation Mass, meetings with world leaders, and introductions to the faithful worldwide. Pope John Paul IV is expected to release his first central message within weeks, possibly outlining his pastoral and theological priorities.
For now, the Church—and the world—pauses. A chapter has closed, and a new one begins. In the new pope’s words, “Do not be afraid. Christ walks with us.”
May God guide him. May the global Church find strength in unity and renewal through the power of the Gospel.