Robert Francis Prevost Emerges Pope Leo XIV, Makes History as First American Pontiff

History was made on Thursday as white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new leader of the Roman Catholic Churc as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been chosen as the 267th Pope, taking the papal name Pope Leo XIV.

He is the first American ever elected to the papacy in the Church’s 2,000-year history.

Pope Leo XIV, 69, brings with him a diverse background that bridges North and South America. A dual citizen of the United States and Peru, he spent much of his ministry as a missionary in Peru and later became Archbishop of Chiclayo. In 2023, he was appointed by Pope Francis to lead the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, placing him at the center of global church leadership and governance.

The papal conclave, comprising 133 cardinal electors, convened just over 24 hours prior to the announcement.

A decision was reached on the fourth ballot relatively swift by historical standards—demonstrating a strong consensus within the College of Cardinals.

Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupted in applause and cheers as the traditional white smoke fumata bianca appeared, followed shortly by the announcement: “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”).

In his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, calling him “a shepherd of mercy and justice.”

He expressed a desire to build upon Francis’ legacy, emphasizing a pontificate rooted in unity, compassion, and dialogue amid a world marked by division and conflict.

“We must be a Church of bridges, not walls,” he said. “A Church that listens, heals, and serves.”

Pope Leo XIV steps into the role at a time of significant global and internal challenges for the Catholic Church.

From addressing climate change and geopolitical instability to continuing reforms around clerical abuse and restoring public trust, his leadership will be pivotal.

Reactions from around the world have poured in, with many expressing hope and cautious optimism. His election has been described as a moment of renewal, especially for Catholics in the Americas.

As the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica ring out and the faithful look ahead, Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy as a symbol of change, tradition, and transcontinental unity.