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In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected as the new pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. His election marks the first time in the Church’s 2,000-year history that an American has ascended to the papacy.
The announcement came from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on the evening of May 8, following the traditional appearance of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel. Thousands of pilgrims and faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupted in joy as the new pope greeted the world with the words, “Peace be with all of you.”
Born and raised in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV, age 69, is also the first pope from the Order of Saint Augustine and holds dual citizenship with the United States and Peru. He brings decades of pastoral and leadership experience, including missionary work in Latin America and service within the Vatican as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Known for his deep humility, quiet strength, and commitment to inclusivity and social justice, Pope Leo XIV is widely respected for his efforts to bridge divides and strengthen pastoral care within the global Church. His first remarks emphasized unity, compassion, and a call for renewed purpose in facing global challenges.
The election of an American pope has drawn strong reactions across the world. While many in the United States celebrated the unprecedented moment, Catholics in Ghana and across Africa expressed hopes that Pope Leo XIV would continue the Church’s growing focus on the Global South, where Catholicism is experiencing its fastest growth.
Pope Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis and is expected to continue his predecessor’s reform-minded and pastoral vision. His leadership begins at a time of significant transformation and global uncertainty, but also renewed faith in the Church’s mission to serve the marginalized and guide its followers with wisdom and grace.
As the 267th pontiff, Pope Leo XIV begins a new chapter for the Catholic Church—one that reflects its expanding global identity and enduring spiritual foundation.
