politics
April 17, 2026
As a Catholic, I’ve struggled with the church - but I applaud the pope’s call for peace
These days, I’m feeling more aligned with Catholicism than I have since my first communion. I’m not alone in that

TL;DR
- The author, a cradle Catholic, has had a complex relationship with the Church due to its rules and past scandals.
- Pope Leo's consistent message of peace and his opposition to Donald Trump's rhetoric have led the author to feel more aligned with Catholicism.
- Other Catholics, including gay activist Dan Savage, are also expressing renewed interest in the Church due to the Pope's stance.
- Anecdotal evidence and public opinion surveys suggest widespread enthusiasm for Pope Leo's position among Catholics, particularly those on the left, and a decrease in Catholic support for Donald Trump.
- The article contrasts the 'peace-loving pontiff' with the 'profane president', suggesting Pope Leo will emerge victorious in their perceived conflict.