When Father Tony Ricard watched the new pope deliver his first address to the faithful Thursday in St. Peter’s Square, he felt an instant kinship.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost is the first American pope in history. Here's his nationality, background, age and more.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected Pope Leo XIV, marking the first American to hold the position. Succeeding Pope Francis, Le

Pope Leo XIV’s devotion to St. Augustine, his life and ministry as a member of the Augustinian order and his focus on the unity of the church are reflected in his episcopal motto and coat of arms.

According to Vatican News, Pope Leo XIV's coat of arms is intended to reflect his Augustinian roots and the values he seeks to promote during his pontificate, particularly unity and communion within the Church.

The View" co-host Sunny Hostin expressed her excitement for Pope Leo XIV after discovering his maternal grandparents were described as people of color on government documents.

"I know he's not happy with what's going on with immigration," a brother of the new pope said. "I know that for a fact."

With the world still wondering how the fledgling papacy of Leo XIV will take wing, cardinals and other clerics gave glimpses into his background and his views on social issues on Friday, while carefully maintaining the secrecy of the conclave.