Ohio House Passes Resolution Honoring Pope Leo XIV, the First American Pope

COLUMBUS— State Representatives Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) and Mike Odioso (R-Green Twp.) announced the Ohio House of Representatives passed House Resolution 139, a resolution honoring Pope Leo XIV for his historic election as the first American Pope.

Elected in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV, born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, became the 267th Pope in the continuous line of succession dating back to St. Peter. A son of the Midwest, his election marks a milestone for the Catholic Church, the United States, and the nearly two million Catholics in Ohio.

“Today the Ohio House joined us in recognizing this historic moment for Catholics in Ohio and across the world,” said Rep. Mathews. “Pope Leo XIV’s journey from the Midwest to the papacy is one of faith, service, and leadership, and we are grateful that our state has formally honored him in his role of Vicar of Christ.” 

“I am proud and humbled to have joint-sponsored this important resolution with Rep. Adam Mathews honoring Pope Leo XIV’s election to help forward the pride, congratulations, and best wishes for the first American Pope from my fellow parishioners, friends, neighbors, classmates, constituents, and Ohio citizens in the Catholic community and beyond,” said Rep. Odioso.

A native of Illinois, Pope Leo XIV studied at Villanova University and the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago before joining the Augustinian order. He served extensively in Peru, where he was appointed bishop, archbishop, and later elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis. 

The resolution will now be sent to the Vatican.