New Orleans Celebrates Roots of Pope Leo XIV
NEW ORLEANS — Excitement fills the air as the Catholic Church unveils Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff with deep ties to Louisiana’s vibrant Creole culture. Born in Chicago, records reveal that the Pope’s lineage traces back to New Orleans, where his maternal great-grandmother was baptized in 1840 at the historic St. Louis Cathedral.
The New Orleans Archdiocese confirmed that his great-grandparents, Ferdinand D. Baquie and Eugenie Grambois, married in St. Mary’s Church in 1864. Historians like Jari Honora, who discovered the familial connection, expressed disbelief and joy at the revelation, emphasizing the significance of a multicultural leader. “It highlights the role that Catholics of color, particularly Black Catholics, have played in the church’s history,” Honora stated.
Residents are thrilled to see their heritage represented on a global stage. Emmaline Kelly, a New Orleans native, remarked, “If there was going to be a first American pope, this is a good person to take on that role.” Many hope Pope Leo XIV will embrace progressive values, following the path carved by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
As the city basks in this moment of recognition, the call to explore his ancestors’ potential ties to enslaved people remains a point of intrigue for historians.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
