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Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV
Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the new Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American to lead the church.
Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, addresses the crowd from the main central loggia balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for the first time, on May 8, 2025. (Photo: TIZIANA FABI)
VATICAN CITY — Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected the new Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, marking the first time an American will lead the church. He has chosen the name Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old pontiff appeared at the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, greeting the crowd with "Peace be with all of you!" and expressing his desire for his message of peace to reach hearts, families, and people worldwide.
The vote came on the second day of the papal election process, known as the conclave. White smoke streamed from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope. The 133 cardinals inside paid homage and pledged obedience to the new head of the church after he accepted his canonical election as supreme pontiff.
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Having spent years working in Peru, Pope Leo XIV thanked his former diocese in the South American country, acknowledging the loyal people who shared their faith. He also spoke warmly of the late Pope Francis and concluded by leading the crowd in prayer. Notably, the new pope is also a Peruvian citizen, having lived in Peru for 20 years as a missionary and later becoming the bishop of Chiclayo.
President Trump congratulated the new pope, expressing excitement to meet him and highlighting the honor for the United States. Brandon Johnson, the mayor of Pope Leo XIV's hometown of Chicago, expressed local pride. Newspapers in Peru noted the new pope's connection to the country, where he developed strong ties during his missionary work.
Once a successful vote was complete, the most senior cardinal asked the newly elected pope if he accepted his canonical election as supreme pontiff and what name he wished to be called. After accepting and choosing his papal name, the pronouncement was made in Latin — "Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!" ("I bring you tidings of great joy: We have a pope!") — and the new pope gave an apostolic blessing to the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square.
