Pope Robert Francis Prevost Becomes 1st American Pontiff in Church History/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Cardinals have elected Robert Francis Prevost as the new pope, making him the first American to hold the role. The white smoke rose on the second day of the conclave, signaling a two-thirds majority vote. Pope Robert Francis I will soon address the world from St. Peter’s Basilica.
Pope Robert Francis I Quick Looks
- Historic Election: Robert Francis Prevost becomes the 267th pope and the first American to lead the Catholic Church.
- Elected Quickly: He was chosen on the second day of the conclave after securing at least 89 votes from 133 cardinals.
- “Habemus Papam”: The traditional announcement will soon be made from St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Public Blessing Imminent: Pope Robert Francis I will make his first appearance to the world from the balcony.
- Background: Prevost, a cardinal and former missionary, is seen as a unifier with deep pastoral and theological experience.
Pope Robert Francis Prevost Becomes 1st American Pontiff in Church History
Deep Look
Pope Robert Francis I Elected as First American Pontiff in Historic Vatican Conclave
VATICAN CITY — In a moment of profound significance for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected pope, taking the name Robert Francis I. The historic announcement came just after 6:00 p.m. local time on Thursday, when white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling the Church had found its next leader.
The 267th pope and the first American to assume the role, Pope Robert Francis I succeeds Pope Francis, who stepped down earlier this year. His election was confirmed by the traditional tolling of St. Peter’s Basilica’s great bells, and an eruption of jubilation in St. Peter’s Square, where tens of thousands had gathered in prayer and anticipation.
“Habemus Papam” — Latin for “We have a pope!” — will soon be proclaimed by Cardinal Protodeacon, followed by the formal announcement of Prevost’s papal name. Pope Robert Francis I is expected to make his first Urbi et Orbi blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica shortly afterward.
Prevost, 69, previously served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and is known for his deep ties to Latin America, having spent years as a missionary in Peru. He is widely respected for combining pastoral outreach with strong doctrinal grounding, qualities seen as vital for shepherding the Church through a complex global landscape.
A Rapid Decision, Rooted in Unity
The conclave, composed of 133 cardinal electors, needed a two-thirds majority — at least 89 votes — to select a new pope. That threshold was met surprisingly swiftly, with the election finalized on just the second day of voting.
Observers noted that the speedy result likely signals a degree of unity among the cardinals, who may have rallied around Prevost as a bridge-builder between progressive and traditional wings of the Church. His election also reflects the global south’s growing influence in Catholic leadership.
A Name with Symbolic Power
The choice of the papal name “Robert Francis I” carries layered significance. It honors both St. Francis of Assisi, echoing his predecessor’s emphasis on humility and service to the poor, and marks a new chapter with a unique American identity — a first in the Church’s 2,000-year history.
Pope Robert Francis I follows in the footsteps of Francis’ reformist papacy but is expected to bring his own pastoral and administrative style to the role. His long missionary background and recent work overseeing global episcopal appointments suggest a pope deeply attuned to the Church’s grassroots and global reach.
A Global Moment, A New Era
Excitement was palpable in St. Peter’s Square, where crowds waved flags, wept, and sang hymns. The Swiss Guard stood at attention, and Vatican bands played in anticipation of the pope’s first appearance. The conclave’s result also resonated beyond Rome, with American Catholics celebrating their countryman’s unprecedented rise.
In the U.S., church bells rang in major cities, and Catholic leaders lauded the decision as a sign of the Church’s continued global transformation. “Today we witness history,” said Cardinal Sean O’Malley. “Pope Robert Francis I will lead with wisdom, compassion, and faith.”
As the Vatican awaits his first words to the faithful and the world, Pope Robert Francis I prepares for a papacy that already carries the weight of hope, change, and historical magnitude.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.