The College of Cardinals elected American Cardinal Robert Prevost as the new head of the Catholic Church on Thursday, with the 69-year-old Chicago native choosing the papal name Leo XIV. This historic selection marks the first time an American has assumed leadership of the 1.4 billion-member global Catholic community.
The newly elected pontiff appeared before tens of thousands of gathered faithful approximately 70 minutes after white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling the 133 cardinal electors had reached their decision. Pope Leo addressed the jubilant crowd from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica with the words: "Peace be with you all."
Video: Pope Leo addresses the crowd / Reuters
French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti made the official announcement using the traditional Latin declaration "Habemus Papam" (We have a pope) to the masses assembled in St. Peter's Square eagerly awaiting news of their new spiritual leader. The selection came as a surprise to many Vatican observers given Prevost's relatively low profile in church hierarchy.
Prevost, who received his cardinal's hat just last year, has dedicated the majority of his ecclesiastical career to missionary work in Peru and rarely engages with media or delivers public addresses. He now assumes the mantle as the 267th Catholic pope following the passing of Pope Francis in April, whose 12-year papacy was characterized by attempts to modernize the ancient institution.
The late Pope Francis, the first Latin American to lead the church, championed various reforms and encouraged discussions on controversial topics including women's ordination and greater inclusivity for LGBT Catholics. Prior to the conclave, cardinals expressed divergent visions – some advocating continuity with Francis' progressive approach, while others favored returning to more traditional practices.
Prevost gained traction among his fellow cardinals due to his understated demeanor and alignment with Francis' priorities, particularly regarding social justice initiatives. He served as bishop in the northwestern Peruvian city of Chiclayo from 2015 until 2023, when Francis brought him to Rome.
In the Vatican, Prevost headed the office responsible for selecting Catholic bishops worldwide, giving him significant influence in shaping the global episcopate. During a Vatican press conference in 2023, Prevost stated: "Our work is to enlarge the tent and to let everyone know they are welcome inside the Church."
