When Father Tony Ricard watched the new pope deliver his first address to the faithful Thursday in St. Peter’s Square, he felt an instant kinship.

Pope Leo XIV, the first American to ascend the papal throne, is gaining popularity on social media due to his unique educational background. Cardinal Robert Prevost, who recently became pope, surprised the world with his educational journey.

The new leader of the Catholic Church has a distinction that goes beyond being the first pope from the United States. Records obtained by the New York Times found that Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost,

Cardinal Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, is now known to be of African ancestry, part of a growing picture Americans are forming of the new supreme pontiff.

According to Vatican News, Pope Leo XIV's coat of arms is intended to reflect his Augustinian roots and the values he seeks to promote during his pontificate, particularly unity and communion within the Church.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected Pope Leo XIV, marking the first American to hold the position. Succeeding Pope Francis, Leo XIV is seen as a continuation of his predecessor's progressive legacy,

COMMENTARY: Long before his election, Pope Leo XIV was reflecting on authority, obedience and communion. His 1987 doctoral dissertation offers a striking preview of the leadership now unfolding.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle recently spoke about Pope Leo XIV, his experience of the conclave, and reflected on the legacy of the late Pope Francis.