As Pope Leo XIV prepares to celebrate his first Christmas as the leader of the world’s Catholics, clear differences are emerging between his papacy and that of his predecessor, Pope Francis. While the substance of their teachings remains largely aligned, Pope Leo has introduced a more guarded, formal and methodical leadership style.
According to Roberto Regoli, an Italian priest and professor at the Vatican’s Pontifical Gregorian University, papal communication goes far beyond words.
“The pope communicates through how he dresses, his gestures and his signals,” Regoli told AFP, noting that Pope Leo’s approach contrasts sharply with Francis’ spontaneous and improvisational style.
Where Francis relied heavily on words and informal gestures, Pope Leo XIV conveys emotion through his facial expressions and a steady, penetrating gaze. Though not physically imposing, he is described as soft-spoken, assured and calm in demeanor.
Born Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo became the first American pontiff on May 8, 2025. So far, he has made only a few key appointments to senior Vatican positions — traditionally viewed as early indicators of a pope’s priorities — suggesting continuity rather than immediate change.
Much of his early papacy has been shaped by the Church’s long-planned Jubilee Holy Year, and he has yet to move into the Apostolic Palace, which Pope Francis famously avoided in favor of simpler living quarters.
On the global stage, Pope Leo has undertaken just one foreign trip — to Turkey and Lebanon — a visit originally scheduled under Francis. However, the journey revealed notable stylistic differences. In Lebanon, the pope addressed enthusiastic crowds with emotion but restraint, sticking closely to prepared speeches and maintaining a composed presence even in tightly packed public gatherings.
A Pope ‘Sure of His Ideas’
Pope Leo has revived the long-standing tradition of spending Tuesdays resting in Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence near Rome that Francis largely shunned. There, the 70-year-old pope plays tennis, swims, reads and takes phone calls.
“Everyone should do some activity to take care of themselves — body and soul together,” he told journalists last month.
Before returning to the Vatican, he often answers questions from reporters, introducing a more open but controlled form of engagement. Unlike Francis, who granted several exclusive interviews during his pontificate, Leo has given just one in seven months.
Despite his reserved demeanor, Pope Leo has not hesitated to speak firmly on sensitive issues. In recent weeks, he sharply criticised US President Donald Trump, describing the treatment of migrants in the United States as “extremely disrespectful.”
“He doesn’t shy away from questions. He speaks his mind because he is sure of his ideas and his way of governing,” Regoli said.
A Vatican source described him as a “modern head of state” who believes a pope can speak informally on issues beyond strictly theological matters. His fluency in English, Italian and Spanish — strengthened by two decades as a missionary in Peru — has helped broaden the reach of his message.
Tradition Returns — With a Modern Touch
Within Vatican circles, there is growing approval of Pope Leo’s respect for institutional structures, his methodical governance style and his deep understanding of complex issues.
“His timidity is also evangelical — a sign of respect for people,” said a diplomatic source, contrasting it with Francis’ sometimes explosive private temperament.
Pope Leo has already taken decisive steps, including reversing some administrative reforms introduced under Francis. He has also restored greater formality to papal attire, reintroducing red capes and gold-embroidered stoles that his predecessor rejected.
Yet amid the return to tradition, Pope Leo has added a modern personal touch — a smartwatch, occasionally visible beneath the lace sleeve of his white vestments — symbolising a pontiff who blends restraint, authority and contemporary sensibility.
As his papacy continues to take shape, Pope Leo XIV appears committed to a leadership style that is calm, deliberate and deeply assured, marking a distinct — yet familiar — chapter in the life of the Catholic Church.
