ANALYSIS: In the first month of his papacy, Leo XIV has demonstrated that he has the grounded demeanor, bridge-building aptitude and focused vision needed to set his own course.

Although no major curial appointments or announcements have been made, one person who had a chance to know then-Cardinal Robert F. Prevost during the Synod on Synodality said the new pope takes his time and listens before speaking or taking concrete action.

Pope Leo XIV is visiting the papal summer palace south of Rome. His visit is fueling speculation about whether he will use it himself to escape Rome's heat or keep the hilltop estate as a museum and environmental center.