Pope-mania sweeps USA as Cardinal Prevost becomes Leo XIV
The selection of American Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV has sparked a wave of enthusiasm in the USA, described as 'pope-mania'. Americans are proud of their pope, which has led to increased interest in Rome and Christianity.
American media report a new phenomenon known as pope-mania. The selection of Cardinal Robert Prevost, who hails from Chicago, as Pope Leo XIV has caused a wave of excitement in the United States. The production of gadgets related to the new pope is on the rise.
Pope-mania
Anyone caught up in pope-mania wants to have something at home associated with Pope Leo XIV.
In Chicago, the pope's hometown, local companies quickly responded to Prevost's selection. Anthony Hall, owner of Harebrained, designed a t-shirt with the slogan "Pope Chicago" within 20 minutes of the announcement.
Obvious Shirts also launched papal t-shirts – with the inscription "Da Pope". This is a play on the classic nickname "Da Bears," used by sports fans from Chicago worldwide to refer to their favourite NFL team. A portion of the proceeds from these t-shirts is allocated to charitable causes. Many city residents proudly wear them every day.
Increased interest in Rome
Interest in trips to Rome is also growing.
Following the conclave's decision, American tourists began to search more frequently for flights and accommodation in Rome. Data from American media indicates that this increase was as much as 36%. Meanwhile, the Italian newspaper "Il Messaggero" notes that American dioceses are well organised, which could lead to more frequent pilgrimages to the Vatican.
The Italian tourism sector is hoping for an increase in the number of American tourists. Stefano Corbari from the Fiavet federation emphasises that the presence of an American in the Vatican will attract both pilgrims and tourists. Americans, who already make up a significant portion of visitors to Rome, spend more than the average pilgrim.
American commentators hope that the pontificate of Leo XIV will strengthen Christianity in the USA. Prof. Kathleen Sprows-Cummings from Notre Dame University points out that American Catholics may now feel more connected to the Church. The selection of a pope from the USA might reverse the trend of declining membership.
