History was made on Thursday as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States was elected as the new pope of the Roman Catholic Church, adopting the papal name Leo XIV. He becomes the first American ever to lead the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church, marking a significant shift in the Church’s global leadership.
The declaration came shortly after white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, indicating the successful election of a new pontiff by the College of Cardinals. Just after 6 pm local time, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re stepped onto the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica to announce “Habemus Papam” — “We have a pope” — introducing Prevost to the world. Minutes later, Pope Leo XIV himself appeared before a jubilant crowd in St Peter’s Square, greeting thousands of worshippers gathered to witness the historic moment.
Clad in white, the new pope smiled warmly and bowed deeply to the cheering masses before offering his first blessing as Bishop of Rome. Bells rang across Vatican City and Rome as flags waved and hymns echoed throughout the square.
Originally from Chicago, 69-year-old Prevost previously served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and is well-regarded for his missionary work in Latin America, especially in Peru. His extensive experience in pastoral leadership and his connections to both North and South America are expected to play a significant role in shaping his papacy.
He follows Pope Francis, who died last month at the age of 88, ending a transformative 12-year pontificate marked by reforms and efforts to modernise the Catholic Church. Observers suggest Pope Leo XIV will likely maintain a similar path, balancing tradition with a pastoral approach that resonates with diverse Catholic communities worldwide.
Scenes of joy and emotion filled St Peter’s Square as pilgrims sang, embraced and captured the moment on their devices. “This is unforgettable,” said Bruna Hodara, a visitor from Brazil, as chants of “Viva il Papa!” echoed across the crowd.
The conclave that selected Pope Leo XIV was the largest and most internationally diverse in the Church’s history, with 133 cardinal-electors from over 70 countries. While the voting process remains confidential, sources indicate that consensus was reached swiftly over the two-day conclave. Upon accepting his election, Prevost retired briefly to the Room of Tears to prepare before emerging in papal vestments to address the world.
Pope Leo XIV steps into the role at a time of significant challenges for the Church — from internal divisions and declining congregations in parts of the world to the continuing fallout from clerical abuse scandals. His ability to unify and steer the Church through modern complexities will be a defining task of his leadership.
Preparations are underway for his official inauguration mass, expected to take place within days. Global leaders and religious figures have already begun sending congratulations, with former U.S. President Donald Trump calling the moment “an extraordinary achievement.” Messages of support have also arrived from leaders across Latin America, Africa and Europe.
The Vatican has asked the faithful worldwide to keep Pope Leo XIV in their prayers as he begins his ministry. His first Urbi et Orbi blessing is expected shortly, providing an early indication of the new pope’s focus and direction.
