Robert Prevost, Takes Name of Pope Leo XIV, Addresses the World/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Robert Prevost of Chicago has been elected the 267th pope, becoming the first American in history to lead the Catholic Church. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV, following his election on the second day of the conclave. Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis and is expected to continue pushing forward Church reforms.
Pope Leo XIV Quick Looks
- Historic Moment: Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, becomes the first American pope, now called Leo XIV.
- Chosen Swiftly: He was elected on the second day of the conclave, receiving the required two-thirds majority.
- A Global Voice: With years of missionary work in Peru, Leo XIV brings deep international experience to the papacy.
- Vision and Unity: In his first address, the pope called for peace and honored the legacy of Pope Francis.
- Next Steps: Leo XIV is expected to maintain momentum on reform and embrace the Church’s global diversity.
Deep Look
Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV, First American in History to Lead Catholic Church
VATICAN CITY — Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, making history as Pope Leo XIV, the first American to ever hold the position.
Cheers erupted across St. Peter’s Square Thursday as white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney at 6:07 p.m. local time, signaling that the cardinals had reached the required two-thirds vote to elect a new pope. The announcement came just a day after the conclave began, marking one of the fastest papal elections in recent decades.
At age 69, Leo XIV emerges from a deeply pastoral and international background, having spent much of his life serving in Latin America, particularly Peru, where he worked as a missionary and served as bishop. Most recently, he held one of the Vatican’s most influential posts as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, where he oversaw the selection of bishops globally.
First Words from the Balcony
Appearing visibly moved on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV offered his first words to the Church and the world:
“Peace be with you all.”
“Let this greeting of peace enter our hearts and our families,” he said, drawing on the words of the resurrected Christ.
“Let us keep in our ears the weak voice of Pope Francis that blesses Rome… God loves everyone. Evil will not prevail.”
A Pope from Chicago, Shaped by Latin America
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Prevost’s path to the papacy has been defined by global service. After joining the Order of St. Augustine, he served for over a decade in Trujillo, Peru, and was later appointed bishop of Chiclayo, a major Peruvian city.
He became a Peruvian citizen in 2015 and speaks fluent Spanish — traits that align with the Church’s increasing emphasis on Latin America and the Global South.
Known for his humility and dedication to pastoral outreach, Leo XIV was widely respected among the cardinals for his theological clarity, administrative skills, and ability to unify across ideological lines.
Building on the Francis Legacy
Many expect Pope Leo XIV to continue the reformist trajectory established by Pope Francis, particularly in the areas of Church transparency, synodality (shared governance), and global outreach.
His election also marks a shift in tone and geography — a sign that the Vatican sees opportunity in blending American-style dynamism with a global pastoral mission.
At his first public appearance, he notably emphasized unity, mercy, and dialogue, calling on Catholics everywhere to become “missionaries of peace.”
Global Reaction and Vatican Atmosphere
Flags from dozens of nations waved across St. Peter’s Square, as pilgrims and faithful reacted with joy, many moved to tears.
In Rome, people ran through the streets toward the Vatican as the news broke. From Argentina to Poland, the global Church paused to witness history unfold — an American pope, chosen in one of the most storied locations in Christendom.
“It’s an epic moment,” said Francesca, a local Roman spectator. “All the world is watching that balcony. We feel at the center of history.”
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