Episode 3119: Habemus Papam! Pope Leo XIV: The Restoration or the Replication of Francis

“Habemus Papam! Pope Leo XIV – The Restoration or the Replication of Francis?”
Opening Prayer
In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti. Amen.
Prayer to the Holy Ghost:
O God, who through the light of the Holy Ghost dost instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant us by that same Spirit to be truly wise and ever to rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
Opening Commentary:
Dear listeners, welcome to CR, your trusted source for Catholic commentary rooted in tradition, clarity, and fidelity to the eternal Magisterium of the Church. Today’s episode comes amidst a surge of questions, hopes, and speculation surrounding the election of Pope Leo XIV.
The cry “Habemus Papam!” rang out across St. Peter’s Square not long ago, and with it came a wave of reactions ranging from cautious optimism to outright skepticism. Is this newly elected pontiff a sign of true restoration, a bridge back to our Catholic roots? Or is he a more palatable successor, hand-groomed to carry on the revolutionary arc of the Francis pontificate?
Let us now unpack these questions with humility, discernment, and most importantly Catholic tradition.
Recap of the Viral Claim
Recently, a video posted on the Return to Tradition YouTube channel created significant stir. It cited unnamed Vatican sources and a papal biographer suggesting that Pope Francis personally mentored and positioned Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost now Pope Leo XIV as his preferred successor. This was described not merely as influence but as a strategic act: grooming someone ideologically aligned, yet outwardly traditional, to continue his vision.
The evidence? Leo XIV’s surprisingly swift return to traditional symbols donning the red mozzetta, using Latin in public blessings, and referencing pre-conciliar teachings in his first general address. These actions struck a sharp contrast to Francis’s more informal papal image.
However, critics argue this traditional veneer could be calculated a “Trojan horse” to appeal to Traditionalists while maintaining progressive momentum behind the scenes. Others believe this might be a spiritual breakthrough a man shaped by modernism now rediscovering the riches of tradition.
As of now, no direct evidence confirms these claims. But they are being discussed widely, especially among Catholics longing for clarity and restoration.
Did Francis Really Pick Him? Theological and Ecclesiological Clarification
Let’s now step away from the noise and enter into the timeless teaching of the Church.
How is a pope chosen?
The Universi Dominici Gregis of Pope John Paul II and Vacantis Apostolicae Sedis by Pope Pius XII reaffirm the ancient truth: the papal conclave is a sacred gathering where the cardinals are to elect the pope freely, under the inspiration but not coercion of the Holy Ghost.
Canon Law & Church Teaching:
Any pact or agreement made among cardinals before a conclave to elect a particular candidate is illicit and canonically invalid (Canon 1329 and V.A.S., §82). While previous popes may have preferences or even promote certain individuals to the College of Cardinals, the election itself must remain unfettered.
So, if Francis had a "favorite" or informal successor, that in itself is not unprecedented. What would be problematic is if such an arrangement influenced the conclave’s integrity.
Key distinction:
Influence ≠ appointment. The Pope cannot “name” his successor like a monarch; the Holy Spirit must be invited to guide free will not replace it.
Traditional Catholics should be cautious about invalidating Leo XIV’s papacy based on hearsay. That would not be proper discernment it would be speculation veiled in frustration.
Vestments, Aesthetics, and What They Mean
Let’s consider the optics the very tangible signs that have caught the world’s attention.
Why do vestments matter?
The Catholic Church teaches that signs and symbols are not empty. The priest’s vestments, the Latin language, incense, chant all these form what Pope Benedict XVI called “sacred signs which speak to the soul.” They are external signs of internal realities.
So, when Pope Leo XIV emerges wearing the traditional red mozzetta, Roman stole, and uses Latin for the Apostolic Blessing these are not accidental. They recall a period when the Church embraced clarity, dignity, and majesty in Her rites.
Theological Interpretation:
• The red mozzetta symbolizes the blood of the martyrs and the authority of the pontiff.
• The use of Latin reflects universality and doctrinal stability.
• The ornate stole? A visual reminder of the shepherd’s yoke taken up in humility and strength.
But is this return merely aesthetic or ascetical in the deeper sense?
Benedict XVI’s insight (Hermeneutic of Continuity):
Benedict restored traditional symbols not as nostalgia, but as a reminder that what was sacred then is sacred now. Authentic reform builds on continuity not rupture.
So we ask: Does Leo XIV understand this continuity or is he using traditional optics to gain goodwill?
Time will tell but symbols matter, and they may be early indicators of deeper intentions.

Traditionalist Hopes and Pastoral Caution
It’s understandable that traditional Catholics are hopeful. After decades of being marginalized especially in the wake of Traditionis Custodes a pope who even appears sympathetic to tradition feels like a miracle.
But Our Lord warned us:
“Beware of false prophets… By their fruits you shall know them.” (Matthew 7:15–16)
Let’s look for the fruits, not just the flowers.
Signs of true restoration would include:
• Removal of restrictions on the Traditional Latin Mass and the repeal or revision of Traditionis Custodes.
• Doctrinal clarity, with emphases on traditional theology: Thomism, Magisterial documents prior to Vatican II.
• Clerical reform, rooted in virtue, reverence, and Marian devotion.
• Liturgical stability, returning to beauty, reverence, and Gregorian chant.

A superficial restoration would instead look like:
• Unchanged doctrine with just a better PR face.
• Continuation of synodal ambiguity.
• Retention of the language of “inclusivity” over truth.
Quote to reflect on:
Archbishop Lefebvre said,
“We are not attached to traditions because they are old, but because they are true.”
Our allegiance is not to appearances but to Veritas, the Truth.
His Address to the Eastern Catholics – A Sign of Restoration?
Early in his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV addressed the Eastern Catholic Churches and his tone was markedly different from recent papal language.
He praised:
• Their liturgical fidelity, including incense, sacred chant, and fasting.
• Their doctrinal steadfastness, especially regarding the sacraments and moral teachings.
• Their preservation of apostolic tradition without capitulation to modernist trends.
Why this matters:
Historically, Eastern liturgies have resisted modernization, clinging to forms developed in the early centuries of Christianity. That Leo XIV acknowledges their strength, rather than calling them to “walk together in synodality,” is a significant departure.
St. Basil the Great reminds us:
“The exterior forms of the liturgy shape the soul and lead it toward God.”
This address may signal that Leo XIV not only values beauty but understands its formative power. If he champions this for the East, will he restore it in the West?
Listener Q&A or Interview
Sample Questions with Responses:
• Q: “How do we distinguish between restoration and rebranding?”
A: Watch for doctrinal clarity, not just aesthetic change. Restoration requires a reorientation toward eternal truth not just conservative style.
• Q: “Should we trust a pope based on vestments?”
A: No. Trust must be earned through fidelity to doctrine, moral clarity, and courage in defending the Deposit of Faith.
• Q: “What if Pope Leo XIV uses ambiguity like his predecessor?”
A: Then we remain anchored to tradition. Ambiguity from Rome does not justify confusion in the pews. Follow the perennial Magisterium.
Optional Interview Segment:
Bring in a priest of the Fraternity of St. Peter or a respected Thomistic theologian who can remind listeners: “The papacy is not magic. Holiness in the Church flows from fidelity not from sentiment.”
Final Reflections – Standing Firm in Faith
As the Church journeys through the fog of this age, we must remain tethered to the Barque of Peter not the man, but the office as instituted by Christ.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)
Whether Leo XIV proves to be a restorer or a refined revolutionary, our mission as Catholics is unchanged:
• Stay in a state of grace.
• Form our intellects with Catholic truth.
• Remain devoted to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and the Rosary.
We pray for our Holy Father and we remain vigilant.
Let us recall Galatians 2:11, when Paul opposed Peter to his face. That too was fidelity not rebellion.
Closing Prayer
Prayer for the Pope (Traditional):
O God, the Shepherd and Ruler of all Thy faithful people, mercifully look upon Thy servant Pope Leo, whom Thou hast been pleased to appoint pastor over Thy Church; grant him, we beseech Thee, to be in word and example a pattern to the faithful, that with him we may attain everlasting life. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti. Amen.
Final Words:
Thank you for joining. Let us continue to pray, study, and hope always faithful, always discerning. Until next time, may God bless you and Mary keep you.