If you've ever wondered what a newly elected Pope gets up to in their free time, wonder no more. According to a close family member, Pope Leo XIV is quite relatable. Like many of us, he enjoys playing games and watching movies during his downtime.
As we previously covered, Conclave, the gripping papal thriller directed by Edward Berger, captivated audiences last year. Its realistic depiction of the conclave process caught the attention of real-world religious figures, including those who recently participated in the selection of the new Pope. Among them was Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV.
In an interview with NBC, the Pope's older brother, John Prevost, shed light on his last conversation with his brother before the conclave. They discussed popular word games such as Wordle and Words with Friends, revealing that Pope Leo XIV is indeed a fan of these pastimes. The brothers even play these games daily, providing a casual escape from the pressures of their roles.
"He had just finished watching the movie Conclave," John explained. "So he knew how to behave. We talked about things like that — I just wanted to take his mind off the upcoming conclave. Laughing about something helps ease the tension."
Directed by Edward Berger, Conclave delves into one of the world's most secretive traditions: the selection of a new Pope. Cardinal Lawrence, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, navigates intrigue and uncovers secrets that could alter the Church's future. For Pope Leo XIV, this cinematic portrayal offered both insight and comfort during a pivotal moment in his life.
