In a historic moment for the Catholic Church and the world, Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago has been elected the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This marks the first time in the Church’s 2,000-year history that a U.S. citizen has become the pontiff.
Prevost’s election was announced on Thursday from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, just over an hour after white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel — the traditional sign that a new pope has been chosen. Addressing the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the new pope greeted them warmly with the words, “Peace be with you all,” sparking cheers and applause from thousands of faithful and onlookers.
French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti delivered the historic proclamation using the famous Latin phrase Habemus Papam — “We have a pope.”
At 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV is known for his quiet demeanor, deep spirituality, and strong alignment with the social justice values championed by his predecessor, Pope Francis. Although he only became a cardinal in 2023, his journey in the Church spans decades. Most of his religious career was spent in Peru, where he worked as a missionary and later served as bishop in the city of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023.
In one of his few public comments before becoming pope, Prevost said, “Our work is to enlarge the tent and to let everyone know they are welcome inside the Church.” This sentiment echoes Pope Francis’ inclusive vision, which emphasized compassion, outreach, and modernization.
Pope Leo XIV’s election came swiftly, occurring on just the second day of the conclave, following the death of Pope Francis in April. The late pope, the first Latin American leader of the Church, served for 12 years and is remembered for initiating significant reforms, encouraging open dialogue on controversial topics like women’s roles in the Church and LGBTQ inclusion.
As head of the Vatican office responsible for selecting bishops worldwide, Prevost played a key role in shaping Church leadership globally. His behind-the-scenes influence, global experience, and pastoral approach may have contributed to his swift selection by the 133 cardinal electors.
While his public profile has been relatively low, insiders regard Pope Leo XIV as a bridge-builder — someone capable of uniting conservatives and reformists during a crucial time for the Catholic Church.
The world now watches to see how Pope Leo XIV will lead the 1.4 billion-member Church forward in an era marked by both tradition and transformation.
