New pope is first American in history to lead Catholic Church

Published: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 5:34 pm

First American Pope Elected: Robert Prevost Takes the Helm as Leo XIV

Vatican City has made history! Robert Prevost, a missionary with a long history in Peru, has been elected the first American pope in the Catholic Church's 2,000-year history. Taking the name Leo XIV, the 69-year-old Augustinian friar succeeds Pope Francis.

The election, which took place in the traditional conclave, saw white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the momentous decision. Prevost, a Chicago native, was a prominent figure in the Vatican, having served as the head of the office that vets bishop nominations and was elevated to the senior ranks of cardinals by Pope Francis. This appointment positioned him as a leading contender.

Leo XIV's first words, delivered from St. Peter's Basilica, emphasized peace, dialogue, and missionary evangelization. He wore the traditional red cape, a departure from Pope Francis's style. The election of Prevost, who is also a Peruvian citizen, breaks a long-standing unwritten rule against a U.S. pope.

The news was met with cheers and excitement in St. Peter's Square, where crowds from around the world gathered, eager to witness the historic event. The new pope's selection comes after a secretive process involving cardinals from around the globe, following strict church law. The previous pope to take the name Leo was Leo XIII, who led the church from 1878 to 1903.

Keywords: Pope, Leo XIV, Robert Prevost, American Pope, Vatican City, Catholic Church, Conclave, St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Francis, Missionary, Peru, Cardinals, Sistine Chapel, Habemus Papam, Election, Papacy

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