n a stunning twist that has left the Catholic world buzzing, the new Pope—whose identity remains a mystery since the 2024 conclave—has made waves not through traditional papal decrees, but via social media. According to Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a Senior Fellow at the American Immigration Council, this pontiff didn’t post at all in 2024. But in 2025, he unleashed a flurry of activity, posting five times with messages that have sparked global debate. From critiquing political figures to retweeting health updates, the Pope’s online presence has redefined what it means to lead the Church in the digital age.
The Pope’s posts, as highlighted by Occupy Democrats, are nothing short of explosive. He began by criticizing JD Vance’s controversial take on Jesus, a move that sent shockwaves through conservative circles. Not stopping there, he shared an article slamming Vance’s deportation policies, aligning himself with progressive voices on immigration. The pontiff also retweeted updates on Pope Francis’ health twice, showing solidarity with his predecessor, and even shared a critique of Trump and Bukele’s mockery of Abrego Garcia. Social media erupted with #NewPopeVibes and #VaticanTweets, as users marveled at the Pope’s unfiltered approach. “A Pope on X? This is wild!” one viral post exclaimed.
The Vatican, known for its centuries-old traditions, is reeling from this modern twist. Traditionalists argue that the Pope’s social media activity undermines the papacy’s sacred dignity, with some calling for him to step back from the platform. “The Chair of St. Peter isn’t a soapbox,” one cardinal reportedly grumbled. Yet, supporters see it as a revolutionary step, bringing the Church closer to the faithful. “He’s speaking our language,” a young Catholic tweeted, alongside a selfie in St. Peter’s Square. The phrase “We like this new Pope already!” from Occupy Democrats has become a rallying cry for those who crave a more engaged pontiff.
The Pope’s posts have also stirred political tensions. His critique of Vance and support for immigration reform have drawn ire from right-wing leaders, who accuse him of meddling in secular affairs. Conversely, progressive groups have hailed him as a moral voice in a divided world, with some speculating he could influence global policies on migration and healthcare. The retweets about Pope Francis’ health have fueled rumors about the former pontiff’s condition, adding another layer of intrigue. Is the new Pope signaling a shift in Church priorities, or simply testing the waters of public opinion?
As the Vatican navigates this uncharted territory, the world watches with bated breath. Will the Pope’s social media streak continue, or will he retreat under pressure? One thing is clear: his bold online presence has shattered expectations, making him a pontiff for the digital era. The faithful—and the curious—are glued to their screens, waiting for his next move. The papacy just got a 21st-century makeover, and the conversation is only getting started.
