We are honored to have had an SJV alumnus participate in the conclave electing the next pope. We were grateful to catch up with His Eminence Blaise Cupich ‘71 (Archdiocese of Chicago) and learn what this experience was like for him.
How did your formation at SJV help prepare you for your life as a priest, bishop, and now cardinal?
I believe that the formation by the faculty and, also, by the other students [was] instrumental in helping me appreciate the demands of priesthood but also the joys of this life. The education I received at the then-College of St. Thomas, particularly from the faculty in the Philosophy department, was also impactful for my priesthood and service to the Church.
What is it like being part of such a monumental moment in Church history?
I have to admit that I took it somewhat in stride simply because I was joined by other cardinals in a matter that was important for the life of the Church. This is the approach that I will always try to take when asked to serve the Church in various capacities.
How has the conclave helped you experience the Holy Spirit’s movement and guidance of the Church?
It was clear to me that there was a presence of God that went beyond the number of people in the Sistine Chapel as we took up our work. That was very comforting to me but also a source of inspiration as I tried to listen to the promptings of the Spirit in my own heart and in our deliberations.
How might this encourage us to experience God leading us in little ways each day?
[T]here were no flashes of lightning or rolling of thunder at the moment in which we [were] asked to cast our vote but a deep sense of consolation and serenity as we took up our work. Perhaps that is a great gift of the Holy Spirit that we ignore at times, namely, the gift of serenity in which we [make] important decisions.
What is your prayer for Pope Leo XIV and his pontificate?
First of all, I pray for a long life and that he will have the grace necessary to carry on the very onerous responsibilities that he now faces. I am confident that God has already blessed him with many gifts. As we say during the Rite of Ordination, “May God who has begun the good work in him bring it to fulfillment.”
Any personal stories of Pope Leo?
[D]uring our meetings in the Dicastery for Bishops, I have always witnessed him as a very deliberate and careful thinker, who listens attentively to others with great respect. I imagine these traits will serve him well as he takes up his new responsibilities.
This article was originally published in the fall 2025 Vianney News magazine. Read more.