State Rep. Adam Mathews | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Rep. Adam Mathews | The Ohio House of Representatives
The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Resolution 139, which honors Pope Leo XIV following his election as the first American Pope. The resolution was introduced by State Representatives Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) and Mike Odioso (R-Green Twp.).
Pope Leo XIV, born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, was elected in May 2025 as the 267th Pope. His election is seen as a significant event for the Catholic Church, the United States, and Ohio’s Catholic community.
“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.
Pope Leo XIV grew up in Illinois and attended Villanova University as well as Catholic Theological Union in Chicago before joining the Augustinian order. He spent many years serving in Peru where he held roles including bishop and archbishop before being made cardinal by Pope Francis.
The resolution will be sent to the Vatican.
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