The Leo Lineage: 13 Bold Popes Who Led Like Lions

9 May, 2025:It is no coincidence that thirteen Popes—and now a fourteenth—have chosen the name Leo, meaning “lion” in Latin, a symbol of courage, strength, and spiritual authority. The newly elected Pope Leo XIV continues this bold tradition, deliberately embracing a name that echoes a legacy of fearless leadership. From ancient times to the present, each Pope Leo has roared with conviction to defend and guide the Church. Here’s a look at the thirteen Popes who came before him, especially the first—Leo the Great—and how they helped shape the course of Catholic history.

Pope Leo XIII (1878–1903): The Champion of Social Justice

Pope Leo XIII is best known for his revolutionary encyclical Rerum Novarum (1891), which addressed the rights of workers and the responsibilities of employers—laying the foundation for Catholic social teaching. He was deeply involved in promoting Thomistic philosophy and modernizing the Church’s approach to social issues, making him a key figure in the Church's adaptation to modernity.

He is also attributed with the Prayer to St. Michael, following a vision during Mass in which he perceived Satan's influence over the Church. Though it is debated whether Leo XIII composed the prayer himself, it has become a cornerstone of Catholic devotional practice.

Pope Leo XII (1823–1829): Defender of Tradition

Pope Leo XII was known for his conservative papacy, reinforcing Church doctrine and practices. He responded to the political turmoil of post-Napoleonic Europe by focusing on restoring the papacy's power, emphasizing moral discipline, and resisting secularism. His encyclicals on religious freedom and the importance of upholding the traditional Christian way of life earned him a place in history as a defender of Church orthodoxy.

Pope Leo XI (1605): The "Lightning Pope"

Pope Leo XI was elected in 1605 but had a short papacy of just 27 days. Although his time was brief, his efforts focused on improving morality within the clergy. Despite the brevity of his papacy, he is remembered for his humility and commitment to the spiritual needs of the Church.

Pope Leo X (1513–1521): Patron of the Renaissance

Pope Leo X, a member of the Medici family, is primarily remembered for his role in the patronage of the arts during the Renaissance. His papacy coincided with the flourishing of Italian culture, but it also became infamous for his involvement in the sale of indulgences—a practice that triggered Martin Luther’s Reformation. Despite the controversy, Leo X is considered a significant figure in Church history for his cultural contributions and efforts to maintain papal power in Europe.

Pope Leo IX (1049–1054): The Reforming Pope

Pope Leo IX is one of the most notable reformers in Church history. During his papacy, he fought against simony (the buying and selling of Church offices) and promoted clerical celibacy. He is also remembered for his role in the Great Schism of 1054 between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches, though he remained committed to Church unity throughout his efforts.

Pope Leo VIII (963–965): The Contested Pope

Pope Leo VIII is one of the more controversial papal figures. Initially declared an antipope, he was eventually recognized as a legitimate pope after his papacy was restored following the death of Pope John XII. His papacy was marked by efforts to restore order and strengthen papal authority during a tumultuous period.

Pope Leo VII (936–939): The Quiet Reformer

Pope Leo VII is noted for his support of the monastic reforms initiated by Cluny and his efforts to reduce the influence of secular politics in the papacy. He is remembered for promoting spiritual renewal during a time when the Church was grappling with secular interference.

Pope Leo VI (928): Little Known but Faithful

Details about Pope Leo VI’s papacy are scarce, as his reign lasted only about two years during a time of significant political instability. Despite the brevity of his leadership, Leo VI is remembered for his commitment to maintaining Church order in a time of crisis.

Pope Leo V (903): The Short-Lived Pope

Pope Leo V was deposed after just a few months in power during a period of political instability in the papacy. His brief papacy reflects the challenges faced by the Church during the Saeculum Obscurum—a period of corruption and external influence. While little is known about his specific contributions, his deposition marks a turbulent chapter in papal history.

Pope Leo IV (847–855): The Wall Builder

Pope Leo IV is celebrated for his role in fortifying the Vatican against Saracen invasions by building the Leonine Wall, which still stands around the Vatican today. His papacy is also marked by spiritual renewal, strengthening the faith in Rome and leading efforts to protect the Holy City.

Pope Leo III (795–816): The Coronation of Charlemagne

Pope Leo III is most famous for crowning Charlemagne as Holy Roman Emperor on Christmas Day in 800, symbolizing the union of Church and State in medieval Europe. This act solidified the Church's political influence and its role in shaping European politics for centuries.

Pope Leo II (682–683): The Defender of Orthodoxy

Pope Leo II was a staunch defender of the Council of Constantinople (the Sixth Ecumenical Council), affirming the Church's position against monothelitism—the heresy that Christ had only one will. Though his papacy was brief, Leo II's defense of doctrine had a lasting impact on the theological development of the Church.

Pope Leo I – St. Leo the Great (440–461): The Lion of Orthodoxy

The first Pope Leo, St. Leo the Great, is considered one of the most important figures in Church history. His theological writings, especially the Tome of Leo, were central in affirming the two natures of Christ—a teaching ratified by the Council of Chalcedon. He famously met Attila the Hun and persuaded him to spare Rome. Leo I also asserted papal authority over the entire Church, establishing the Roman papacy as the central authority in Christendom. His papacy was marked by courage, doctrinal clarity, and decisive action in preserving the faith.

Conclusion

The Leos who led the Church each brought a unique and impactful contribution to the faith. From social justice to theological clarity, and from spiritual reform to political leadership, these Popes embodied the heart of the Church in their respective eras, demonstrating unwavering dedication to the mission of Christ.

By Catholic Connect Reporter