** Léon XIV: A call for social and ethical reflection of the Vatican **
On May 8, 2025, the Vatican experienced a significant moment in its history with the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Léon XIV. This choice, rich in symbols, evokes not only the heritage of his predecessor, Léon XIII, but also raises questions about the future of the Catholic Church in a world in full transfer.
### A choice of name responsible for meanings
Choosing the name Léon XIV is not done without a certain historical weight. Indeed, Léon XIII, a papacy which lasted from 1878 to 1903, is essentially recognized for his reflections on social injustices and the role of the Church in modernity. In his encyclical “Rerum Novarum”, he addresses the working -class condition and the transformations generated by industrialization, denouncing the concentration of wealth and calling for respect for workers’ rights.
This return to the social sources of Catholicism seems to be a concern for the new Pope. Eric de Moulins-Beaufort, president of the Conference of Bishops of France, stressed that Léon XIV represents continuity in this reflection, in particular in the face of current issues such as those linked to globalization and technological developments, such as artificial intelligence. This approach then raises a crucial question: how can the social thinking of Leon XIII be reinterpreted and applied to contemporary challenges?
### A bridge between tradition and modernity
The Pontificate of Leon XIV could be an opportunity to revisit the values of the Church in connection with the societal realities of today. The concerns of Léon XIII, in his time, still resonate today. Many voices, both inside and outside the Church, wonder about the consequences of economic imbalances, social inequalities, and ethical questions raised by modern technology.
The fundamental question then lies in the role that the Catholic Church can play. Many people hope that Leon XIV will be able to adopt a posture that combines respect for traditions and taking into account new realities, providing answers adapted to the challenges of a constantly evolving world.
### A call for peace and dialogue
During his inaugural speech, Léon XIV launched a “appeal of peace” to the peoples. This call underlines the importance of interreligious and intra -religious dialogue at a time when geopolitical tensions and social crises are increasing. What avenues can be explored to promote a constructive dialogue? How can the Church be a vector of reconciliation rather than a division factor?
The current global context, marked by health, economic and environmental crises, requires special attention. Can the values of universality and solidarity dear to the church be relevant tools to promote a fairer and peaceful society?
### Conclusion: a prudent hope
In short, the election of Leon XIV opens up promising perspectives, but also considerable challenges. His choice of name evokes a rich and complex heritage which he has the possibility of honoring while responding to contemporary concerns. If his calls for peace and social justice find an echo with the faithful and beyond, it is now a question of seeing how this awareness can be embodied in concrete actions.
The Pontificate of Leon XIV encourages to think about the widths of mind and commitment that can be expected from the Church in the years to come. What initiatives can be implemented to make this call to build a future based on respect, human dignity and social justice? The answer to this question remains to be built, and he will take with him the hope of many followers and attentive observers.