Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, becoming the first American to hold the position. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV.
The announcement came after white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the successful conclusion of the papal conclave. Prevost, 69, emerged onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first public address, offering a message of peace and unity while paying tribute to his predecessor, the late Pope Francis.
“Peace be with you all,” Leo XIV said, visibly emotional. “Let us be a missionary church, one that builds bridges and engages in dialogue.”
Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, Prevost earned degrees in mathematics and theology before being ordained as a priest in 1982. He spent over a decade serving as a missionary and bishop in Peru and was most recently the prefect of the Vatican’s powerful Dicastery for Bishops. His global experience and deep ties to Latin America were seen as key factors in overcoming historical hesitations about electing a U.S. pope.
Speaking in Spanish to his former diocese in Peru, the new pope expressed affection for the people he once served, calling them “a faithful church” and reaffirming his commitment to a global, inclusive vision for the Catholic Church.
Pope Leo XIV emphasized continuity with Pope Francis’ reforms and called for a “synodal” Church — one that listens, walks together, and is close to those who suffer.
In his remarks, Leo XIV also thanked his fellow cardinals for their trust, saying, “I will walk with you as a united Church, always seeking peace and justice.”
U.S. President Donald Trump hailed the election as a “Great Honor for our Country,” praising Prevost and expressing eagerness to meet the new pontiff.
Tens of thousands of faithful from around the world gathered in St. Peter’s Square, waving flags and cheering as the announcement was made. The atmosphere was jubilant, with the Swiss Guard marching and church bells ringing across Vatican City.
Formal inauguration ceremonies for Pope Leo XIV are expected in the coming days.
Nzubechukwu Eze.
