American-born Pope Leo XIV exudes a “natural power” that could prove to be a major advantage as he looks set to deal with major global figures such as Donald Trump
Pope Leo XIV shared a “subliminal” sign of his “natural power” that could stump world leaders like Donald Trump, a body language expert has told The Mirror.
Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV shattered Catholic conventions going back to its founding when he was named on Thursday as the first American to be named to the position in its long history. Cardinals quickly chose Robert Francis Prevost to the highest position, viewing him as a moderate force able to satisfy both left and right wings of the church. World leaders congratulated the 69-year-old on being elected Pope, but a body language expert has trawled through previous clips and photos of Leo that could indicate how he will handle the most powerful people on the planet.
Former Pope Francis was a polarising figure in the Catholic church who was adored for his dedication to the poor, but equally disliked among some conservative figures for his stance on supporting migrants and refugees. Pope Leo will now hope to appeal to world leaders by delicately navigating the papacy amid heightening global tensions.
Body language expert Judi James examined clips and photos of the new Pope that indicate how he could communicate with confidence when out in public and when engaging with world leaders. In one particular video, recorded by Vatican News, the Pope – then Prevost – spoke about how bishops should serve the people, particularly how to “suffer” with them and not being a “little prince.”
“Probably one of the most important factors about this clip is that the now Pope Leo is a man who can communicate confidently and charismatically in the very modern manner of talking straight to a camera,” Ms James told the Mirror.
“In a world of social media and influencers this gives him the advantage of a very direct and personal method of communicating.
“His style of speech here also looks motivational, meaning he possesses the natural power of being able to inspire people. He might never use this camera technique again as Pope, but it gives an insight into the power he might possess when it comes to speaking direct to world leaders during his path for peace.
“He projects calm but also a sense of passion that looks backed up by actual experience. His slightly asymmetric smile hints at a sense of humour and even joy. His hand gestures involve a spreading of cupped hands to gently make his points, but they come back into a meshed cupping, which sends subliminal signals of unity and co-operation.”
There are other moments from the American-born Pope’s past that indicate a more relaxed presence, according to Ms James. A photo of him on horseback pointing toward the distance show a relatable figure yet also as someone who exudes leadership qualities, said Ms James.
“The photo on the horse seems to present a man who is, ultimately, relatable. It looks like a reminder of his more human side and his life experience,” she said.
“The shades and the smart casuals could look like any tourist on holiday although his arm extended in a point suggests this was perhaps part of his role as a religious leader, although his posture and his smile suggests his style of leadership is quite natural and unforced, somebody people might follow out of choice rather than out of titular expectations.”
While Pope Leo will likely enjoy making history as the first American Pope, he faces numerous challenges within the Catholic Church. A growing church outside of its heartland in Europe and fraying relations between more conservative and liberal wings will need to be tackled while also satisfying every day Catholics.