Historic Election: Cardinal Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV, First American Pontiff

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American from Chicago, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time an American has ascended to the papacy. His election signifies a new chapter for the Catholic Church.

Historic Election: Cardinal Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV, First American Pontiff

In a momentous event for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American to hold the papacy. The 69-year-old Chicago native’s election was announced on May 8, 2025, following the traditional white smoke signal from the Sistine Chapel, indicating a successful conclave.

Pope Leo XIV’s election comes after the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025. The conclave, consisting of 133 voting cardinals, reached the required two-thirds majority on the fourth ballot over two days.

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Cardinal Prevost brings a wealth of experience to the papacy. He has served extensively in Peru as a missionary, bishop, and archbishop, and was appointed as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in 2023. His diverse background and commitment to pastoral care have been widely recognized within the Church.

In his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV emphasized themes of peace, unity, and spiritual guidance, resonating with the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square and around the world.

As the 267th pope, Leo XIV’s leadership is anticipated to navigate the Church through contemporary challenges, including internal divisions, global conflicts, and the ongoing impact of clerical abuse scandals.

The Vatican has announced that Pope Leo XIV will celebrate his inaugural Mass within the coming week, marking the beginning of his papal ministry.