"Nobody ever expects it to be an American."
Since Thursday's announcement, people have been reacting across the world. In New York, a woman who shares the hometown of Chicago with the new pope, said that she was excited about having an American pope at this point in their lives because the US has been getting a little bit of a bad reputation.
Another woman from Connecticut said that she was "just surprised that it was an American, since that's a first and nobody ever expects it to be an American."
She added that she thinks with all of the craziness in the world today, this could be an opportunity to bring some really great balance.
The new pope spent over 20 years in Peru and has citizenship in the country. He served as a bishop at a church in the northern city of Chiclayo. A local television station broadcasted followers' joyful response to the selection.
One man said that he was especially excited and felt blessed that the new pope is from Chiclayo. He also said that he knows that Pope Leo will continue much of Pope Francis' legacy.
World leaders react
US President Donald Trump welcomed the new pope. On Thursday, Trump said on social media: "It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a great honor for our country." He added that he looks forward to meeting Pope Leo.
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message saying that he is confident that "the constructive dialogue and cooperation established between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop on the basis of the Christian values that unite us."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted a message on social media. He said his country "values the Holy See's consistent position in upholding international law," including condemning Russia's aggression and protecting the rights of innocent civilians.
Similarities and differences with Pope Francis
NHK World's Katsuki Takayuki, who covered the 2013 papal electoral process known as a conclave, says the selection of an American was a big surprise.
Katsuki points out that many thought the cardinals who participated in this conclave would not let an American head the Roman Catholic Church, given that the US already has such a big voice in the international community.
Katsuki notes that Pope Leo is known to have earned the deep trust of his predecessor, Pope Francis. Both have been recognized for their dedication to helping the poor and supporting immigrants. Leo has also been vocal about global peace and climate change issues.
However, Katsuki adds there are differences between the two. There are reports that Leo has taken a cautious stance on homosexuality. Therefore, Katsuki says the new pope is considered to be more of a centrist, rather than a progressive.
Balancing relations
The Vatican said that concern was expressed over divisions within the Roman Catholic Church in a congregation of the cardinals ahead of the conclave. As a result, Katsuki says there are expectations that the new pope will take a well-balanced approach in his relationship with conservatives.
Katsuki also notes people will be paying close attention to how Pope Leo's relationship with Trump develops. The two apparently have differences of opinions on issues, including immigration.
Katsuki emphasizes that the Vatican will need to communicate with the White House to realize a peaceful and stable world, and the fact that the pope is American may help.
"That may have even been one of the reasons why the cardinals chose him," Katsuki adds.
A Church that builds bridges and 'open to all'
As analysts and followers speculate on the direction the new pope will take the Roman Catholic Church, Katsuki says the fact that he chose the papal name Leo XIV may be a clue.
"Leo XIII was the pontiff during the late 19th century. He opened up the Church to confront challenges in the international community and labor issues," Katsuki explains.
"That suggests Pope Leo will be willing to delve into social issues, as well as possibly try to help with mediation efforts."
Katsuki also points out the words from Leo's first address: "We have to look together how to be a missionary Church, building bridges, dialogue, always open to receiving with open arms for everyone, like this square, open to all..."
Katsuki says this comment feels especially relevant in a divided world with ongoing wars, adding that people are hoping Pope Leo does what he says and plays a big role in achieving peace.