Bridges and divides Where does Leo stand on key issues?

Within hours of his election as the 267th pontiff, Leo was being talked about as a bridge builder, a pope who would continue in Francis's footsteps but without alienating traditionalists as his predecessor sometimes did.

- Harriet Sherwood VATICAN CITY

He is “known for solid judgment and a keen capacity to listen, and someone who doesn’t need to pound his chest to be heard”, according to a profile on Crux, a Catholic news website.

Although he is expected to follow Francis in many respects, he is likely to do so in a more emollient manner than his predecessor. In his opening remarks as pontiff, Leo said: “We have to be a church that works together to build bridges and to keep our arms open.” He will try to be a symbol of greater unity in the church.

Nevertheless, some conservative cardinals and bishops in the US may bridle at his earlier criticisms of Donald Trump and his inclination towards a progressive position. Steve Bannon, a prominent Catholic ally of Trump, called Leo the “worst pick for Maga Catholics”, deeming him the “anti-Trump pope”.

Social justice, climate and peace

Leo’s theology is focused on the poor and marginalised, following his predecessor’s priorities. He has been critical of harsh immigration policies. As pontiff, his language is expected to be less confrontational than Francis’s, but he is likely to endorse the same priorities.