Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, of Chicago, has been elected the 267th Bishop of Rome. He chose the papal name Leo XIV. Born to immigrant parents, he becomes the first American-born pope in the Church’s 2,000-year history.
The conclave convened in the Sistine Chapel on May 7, 2025. A total of 133 cardinals participated. They elected Prevost after four ballots. White smoke signaled the election. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti announced “Habemus Papam!” from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The crowd initially fell silent, unfamiliar with the name Robert Francis Prevost. However, the atmosphere quickly shifted as Pope Leo XIV addressed the faithful in fluent Italian and Spanish, referencing his time serving in Chiclayo, Peru. “Peace be with you,” he told the crowds.
His deep ties to Latin America, alongside his American heritage, make him a unique figure in the Church’s leadership.
White smoke from the Sistine Chapel billowed into the sky on the cardinals’ second day of voting to announce his election in a secret conclave, while the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica and churches across Rome rang out.
The election of Pope Leo XIV has sparked reactions from leaders worldwide. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria congratulated the new pontiff, calling his election a “defining moment for the global Catholic community”. Similarly, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described the event as “a profound moment for the Catholic Church and the global community”, expressing hope that Pope Leo XIV would strengthen faith and unity worldwide.
The new pontiff, who succeeds Argentine reformer Pope Francis, was introduced in Latin with his chosen papal name.
“It’s an amazing feeling,” said an elated Joseph Brian, a 39-year-old chef from Belfast in Northern Ireland, who came with his mother to Rome for the spectacle. “I’m not an overly religious person but, being here with all these people just blew me away,” he told AFP as people around him jumped up and down in excitement.
Pope Leo XIV steps into his role at a time of significant challenges for the Church. His predecessor, Pope Francis, was known for his progressive stance on social issues, and many expect Pope Leo XIV to continue in a similar vein. His views on immigration, social justice, and unity will likely shape his papacy, as he seeks to bridge divides within the Church and beyond.
The papal inauguration usually takes place less than a week after the election with a mass celebrated before political and religious leaders from around the world. The new pope will likely do a tour of St. Peter’s Square in his popemobile for the first time, before delivering a homily outlining his priorities.
