BREAKING: Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV — First American Pontiff in Catholic Church History

In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This marks the first time an American has ascended to the papacy.

The announcement came after white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney at 6:08 p.m. Rome time on May 8, 2025, signaling that the College of Cardinals had successfully reached a two-thirds majority decision. Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti then appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and proclaimed the traditional words, “Habemus Papam” — “We have a pope” — officially introducing the new pontiff to the world.

Who Is Pope Leo XIV?

Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV is 69 years old and a member of the Order of St. Augustine. He spent a large part of his early ministry as a missionary in Peru and later served as a bishop there. Most recently, he held a prominent position in the Vatican overseeing the appointment of bishops around the world.

Known for his balanced views, Pope Leo XIV is seen as a centrist — progressive on social outreach and inclusivity, yet traditional in matters of Church doctrine. He is expected to continue the pastoral focus of his predecessor while bringing his own leadership style to the global Catholic community.

The Significance of the Name “Leo XIV”

By choosing the name Leo XIV, the new pope places himself in the lineage of previous popes named Leo, the most recent of whom reigned in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. That papacy was marked by intellectual engagement with modern issues, and the name choice may signal similar intentions from Pope Leo XIV as he begins his leadership.

A New Chapter for the Catholic Church

Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy at a time of great transition, following the passing of Pope Francis in April 2025. The Church faces numerous challenges, from internal reform and global conflicts to declining church attendance in parts of the world. The election of an American pope reflects a shifting center of gravity in the Church, acknowledging the growing influence of Catholic communities in the Americas.

As he prepares to address the faithful for the first time, Pope Leo XIV ushers in a new era filled with hope, anticipation, and renewed spiritual leadership.