When white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, the world waited to see who would become the new leader of the Catholic Church. For most people, it was a historic moment. But for one man, it was also a deeply personal and emotional experience. The newly elected Pope Leo XIV was not just the head of the Church — he was his older brother.
In a heartfelt interview, Giovanni Moretti, the younger brother of Pope Leo XIV, shared his reaction to the news. He said he felt disbelief and surprise when he found out his brother had become the Pope. “I thought there must have been some mistake,” Giovanni said. “It didn’t feel real. My brother, the Pope? It was something I never imagined in my life.”
This emotional story offers a rare look into the personal side of the Pope’s life. The Moretti family, from a quiet town in northern Italy, had always lived simply. Their life was built around faith, family, and helping others. Even though they were close to the Church, they never imagined that one of their own would one day wear the white robes of the papacy.
Pope Leo XIV, born as Francesco Moretti, was the oldest of five children. Giovanni remembered their early years together, growing up in a small home filled with love and spiritual values. “We were not wealthy, but we were happy,” he said. “Our parents taught us honesty, kindness, and to always help others.”
From a young age, Francesco showed a strong connection to the Church. He spent time in prayer and often helped the local parish priest. Giovanni smiled as he remembered, “He always had a serious look on his face, even as a child. But he also had a big heart. He helped everyone — whether it was an old neighbor or a stray dog.”
As Francesco grew older, his dedication to serving God became stronger. He joined the seminary at 18 and later studied theology in Rome. Over the years, he became a respected figure in the Church. He was eventually appointed as a cardinal and later chosen as Pope Leo XIV. His path was guided by deep faith and a desire to serve, not by a desire for power.
Giovanni shared how he found out about his brother becoming Pope. “It was a normal day. I was having coffee when the news came on TV — they said Cardinal Moretti had been chosen. I froze. My hands were shaking.” He received a phone call from the Vatican shortly after, confirming the news. “I was speechless. I kept saying, ‘Is this really happening?’ I cried — tears of joy, confusion, and pride.”
While Giovanni and his family always knew Francesco was devoted to the Church, they never expected him to become Pope. “He never chased power or wanted attention,” he said. “He just wanted to serve God and help people.” Giovanni admitted he felt proud but also emotional, knowing their lives had changed forever. “I miss the simple days. The talks over dinner. Now everything is different. But I know he is where he belongs.”
Even though the Pope now lives in the Vatican and carries the weight of global leadership, the bond between the brothers remains strong. “He called me a few days after the announcement,” Giovanni said. “His voice was calm, full of love. He said, ‘Giovanni, pray for me.’ That’s all he asked. Not congratulations, not praise — just prayers.”
Pope Leo XIV has already earned praise for his humility, wisdom, and ability to connect with ordinary people. Many believe that his humble background and close family ties help him relate to people with warmth and understanding. “He remembers everyone’s name, asks about their families, and listens — really listens,” Giovanni said. “That’s the Francesco I know. The world sees the Pope, but I still see my brother — the boy who helped our mother cook and fixed my bicycle.”
The Moretti family has been deeply touched by Francesco’s election. “It’s an honor, but also a responsibility,” Giovanni said. “We now carry a legacy, and we must live with even more care and kindness.” He said they are proud but continue to live simply, just like before. “We haven’t changed. Fame and attention don’t mean much. What matters is love, faith, and staying true to who you are.”
Since the Pope’s election, the Moretti family has received many letters and messages from all over the world. “Some people wrote to say how inspired they were,” Giovanni said. “Others just sent blessings. It’s beautiful to see how far his message has reached.”
Giovanni said he has full faith that his brother will lead the Church with wisdom and compassion. “He has always put others before himself. Now, he is doing the same for millions. I believe he will bring light, healing, and peace to many lives.” He ended the interview with a personal message to his brother: “Stay strong. Stay humble. And never forget where you came from.”Pope Leo XIV’s journey from a quiet Italian town to becoming the leader of the Catholic Church is a story of faith, service, and family. Through Giovanni’s memories and emotions, we see a deeper side of the Pope — a man shaped by love, guided by belief, and supported by his family.
