Pope Leo XIV: Continuity the key for Pope seen as unifier

In his first blessing, the new pope multiplied the signals of continuity with Francis. But also gave some hints of a pontificate that could quickly affirm his difference, and work actively to reunite the Church. From our special envoy, to Rome.

Pope Leo XIV: Continuity the key for Pope seen as unifier

The new Pope is seen as someone who could unite traditionalist and progressive within the Church, writes the BBC's religion editor.

For Bernard Lecomte, a journalist specializing in the papacy, the election of Leo XIV marks a form of continuity with his predecessor Francis, who appointed him cardinal only two years ago.

Dutch Cardinal Wim Eijk does not expect the new Pope Leo XIV to bring about a major revolution in the church. "I think that a very important task of the Pope is to restore unity in the church," Eijk said shortly after the conclave.

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