Evil Will Not Prevail: Robert Francis Prevosts First Speech As Pope Leo XIV
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 7:17 pm
First American Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost Addresses the World
In a historic moment, Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, has been elected as the first American Pope, taking the name Leo XIV. The 69-year-old addressed a crowd outside St. Peter's Basilica on Thursday, marking a significant milestone for the Catholic Church.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America under Pope Francis, received a two-thirds majority vote. Introduced by Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, he greeted the crowd with a message of peace, echoing the words of the risen Christ.
In his first address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and faith in God. He called for building bridges through dialogue and encounter, urging the Church to be a missionary force, open to all. He also acknowledged the legacy of Pope Francis and expressed gratitude to his fellow cardinals. The new Pope, an Augustinian, highlighted the need for the Church to be synodal, walking together in search of peace, charity, and closeness, especially to those suffering. He concluded with a prayer to Mary, asking for her intercession for the Church and for peace in the world. This election marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church, with Pope Leo XIV poised to lead with a message of hope and unity.
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