American Pope?! The Internet Loses It!

2025-05-13 00:00:21.083

The recent passing of Pope Francis and the subsequent election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, has ignited a firestorm of online activity. Social media platforms are buzzing with memes and jokes, creating a shared moment of levity and irreverence. A parody Vatican account, Pope Crave, has become a central hub for news and humor surrounding the event, even breaking the news of the new pope's election before official sources. This collective online response is seen as a positive aspect of internet culture, offering a welcome respite from negativity and division. The memes highlight the absurdity of the papal selection process and the contrast between the pomp and circumstance of the event and the ongoing global crises. Simultaneously, this online engagement has spurred charitable action, with Pope Crave's Conclave Charity Zine raising over $15,000 for various charities. The article also points out the underlying critique of the Catholic Church's power and problematic stances on social issues, suggesting that the widespread online reaction reflects a growing questioning of established institutions and power structures.