Cardinal Robert Prevost announced as first American pope, taking name Leo XIV

Published: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 5:24 pm

First American Pope Elected: Cardinal Robert Prevost Takes the Name Leo XIV

The Catholic Church has a new leader! In a historic moment, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV. The announcement came Thursday after white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling the end of the conclave. Thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square to hear the news, delivered by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti.

Prevost, a 69-year-old Augustinian, emerged onto the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, clad in the traditional red cape. His first words, spoken in Italian, were a message of peace and building bridges, urging dialogue "without fear." He then addressed the crowd in Spanish, reflecting on his time as a missionary and archbishop in Chiclayo, Peru. Notably, he did not speak in English during his initial address.

Pope Leo XIV succeeds the late Pope Francis, who passed away in April. Prevost, known for sharing similar views to his predecessor, expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis in his remarks. He was brought to the Vatican in 2023 by Francis to head the office responsible for vetting bishop nominations, a position that gave him significant influence within the Church.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, Prevost also holds citizenship in Peru, where he served for many years. He holds a degree in Mathematics from Villanova University and studied theology at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago. This election marks a significant moment for the Catholic Church, with the first American pontiff taking the helm.

Keywords: Cardinal Robert Prevost, Pope Leo XIV, American Pope, Catholic Church, Vatican, St. Peter's Square, Sistine Chapel, Conclave, Pope Francis, Augustinian, Chicago, Peru, Archbishop, Missionary, Election, White Smoke.

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