Historic Moment as Portland Priest Celebrates First American Pope
In a momentous occasion, millions rejoiced at the Vatican as Robert Francis Prevost was announced as Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in history. The announcement sent a wave of excitement to Father Michael Guimon, a Catholic priest at The Grotto in Northeast Portland, who personally knows the new pope from their time together at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.
As bells tolled in Rome, Father Guimon received numerous calls from parishioners eager to learn more about the new pontiff. “Do I know him? What’s he like? Will he be good for us?” were common queries among the congregation, emphasizing the importance of this event for local Catholics.
“I’m hopeful and delighted that we have an American pope,” Guimon expressed. He believes that Pope Leo XIV can offer hope to those in his community grappling with the challenges in America today. Guimon posits that this historical moment may rejuvenate spirits and foster a more positive outlook among his parishioners.
With over 430,600 Catholics in Western Oregon, comprising about 15% of the Portland-metro population, the local Catholic community is significant. The church remains the largest Christian denomination in the state, with its influence continuing through numerous churches and schools.
While Pope Francis shifted the Church’s stance towards more progressive views, questions linger about whether Pope Leo XIV will maintain this trajectory. Father John Donato from the University of Portland remarked that Leo represents a continuation of Francis’ legacy, emphasizing the imperative of peace in his inaugural message, “Peace be with you.”
Father Guimon believes that Pope Leo XIV will resonate with Portland’s core values, particularly concerning social justice and advocacy for indigenous peoples, drawing from his past experiences in Peru.
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