In a historic moment that has captivated the world, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old native of Chicago, Illinois, has been elected as the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement, marked by the traditional white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney on May 8, 2025, signals the first time in the Church’s 2,000-year history that an American has ascended to the papacy. This milestone carries profound significance for the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, as well as for the United States, where over 61 million Catholics form a substantial portion of the faithful.
The conclave, which began on May 7, 2025, followed the death of Pope Francis on April 21 at the age of 88. Over 10,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square to witness the outcome of the 133 cardinal electors’ deliberations, a diverse group representing 70 countries. The process, steeped in centuries-old tradition, required a two-thirds majority to select the new pontiff. After multiple rounds of voting, indicated by black smoke signaling no decision, the emergence of white smoke and the ringing of St. Peter’s bells confirmed Prevost’s election, prompting cheers from the crowd and a global wave of reaction.
Born in 1955, Prevost’s journey to the papacy is one of humble beginnings and steadfast service. Raised in Chicago, the largest archdiocese in North America, he studied at the Catholic Theological Union, where he formed a reputation as a calm and direct leader. His career has been marked by extensive work in Latin America, particularly in Peru, where he served as a missionary and later as bishop of Chiclayo from 2014. This experience shaped his pastoral approach, emphasizing outreach to marginalized communities, a priority that echoed the legacy of Pope Francis. Prevost’s dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship and fluency in Spanish have positioned him as a bridge between the Americas and the global Church.
Since 2023, Prevost has served as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful Vatican role overseeing the selection of bishops worldwide. His tenure has been characterized by a centrist approach, balancing progressive social outreach with adherence to traditional Church doctrine. Observers note his commitment to inclusivity, particularly for migrants and the poor, while maintaining conservative stances on issues such as the ordination of women. This blend of compassion and orthodoxy likely appealed to the cardinals, who faced a deeply divided Church seeking both continuity and renewal.
The election of an American pope breaks a centuries-long tradition of European dominance in the papacy, with the exception of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff. Prevost’s selection reflects the growing influence of the global South and the Americas in the Church, a shift championed by Francis, who appointed 108 of the 133 voting cardinals. Vatican analysts suggest that Prevost emerged as a compromise candidate, supported by the “Bergoglian” faction loyal to Francis’s reforms, yet palatable to those favoring a return to traditional order.
The choice of the name Leo XIV pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, who served from 1878 to 1903 and is remembered for his social teachings and diplomatic finesse. Prevost’s papacy is expected to address pressing challenges, including the Church’s role in a polarized world, financial strains, and the ongoing reckoning over past abuse scandals. His experience in interfaith dialogue, honed through years in diverse cultural settings, may prove vital in navigating these issues.
As news of Pope Leo XIV’s election spread, reactions poured in from around the globe. In Chicago, where Prevost’s roots run deep, celebrations erupted at Holy Name Cathedral, with parishioners expressing pride in their native son. Internationally, leaders and faithful alike expressed hope that his leadership would foster unity and renewal. At 69, Prevost brings a seasoned perspective to the papacy, with a style described as steady and pastoral, yet unafraid to confront complex issues.
The world now watches as Pope Leo XIV steps onto the global stage, carrying the weight of history and the aspirations of millions. His election marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church, one that promises to blend American pragmatism with the universal mission of the faith. As he prepares to deliver his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the faithful and curious alike await the vision this historic pope will set forth.