US Cardinal Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV: A Historic First
Vatican City, May 9 — Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, making history as the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. The election, which took place in the Sistine Chapel, marks a significant milestone for the Church and its 1.4 billion members worldwide.
A Moment of Revelation
The new pontiff made his first public appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica approximately 70 minutes after white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling a successful election. French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti delivered the traditional Latin announcement “Habemus Papam” (“We have a pope”) to tens of thousands gathered in the square.
In his initial address, Pope Leo XIV offered a brief but poignant message: “Peace be with all you.”
Succeeding Pope Francis
Pope Leo XIV becomes the 267th pope following the death of Pope Francis in April. Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, served for 12 years and was known for his efforts to modernize the Church and emphasize inclusivity.
The conclave reached a decision on the second day of voting. Church bells rang out across Rome and crowds surged toward St. Peter’s Square in anticipation of seeing the newly elected pontiff.
Public Reaction
Among those present was Joseph Brian, a 39-year-old chef from Belfast, who described the experience as awe-inspiring. “I’m not an overly religious person, but being here with all these people just blew me away,” he shared.
Background of Pope Leo XIV
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, the 69-year-old pope has spent much of his career in missionary work. He served extensively in Peru and was only made a cardinal in 2023. Despite his limited media presence, he earned a reputation as a bridge-builder and moderate voice within the Vatican.
Educated at Villanova University in Philadelphia, Cardinal Prevost obtained a degree in mathematics before earning a master’s degree in divinity and a doctorate in canon law. He began his missionary work in Peru in 1985 and spent over a decade there before returning to the United States.
Vatican Service and Leadership
Cardinal Prevost held several leadership roles, including provincial prior for the Augustinians in the Midwest and prior general for the order globally. He was later appointed bishop of Chiclayo in northwest Peru from 2015 to 2023.
In 2023, Pope Francis brought him to Rome to lead the Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful Vatican office responsible for recommending bishop appointments worldwide. His thoughtful leadership and dedication to the Church’s marginalized communities earned him wide respect.
A Pope for a Global Church
Cardinal Prevost’s election was anticipated by many Vatican observers due to his global perspective and moderate approach. Known for his strong foundation in canon law and alignment with Pope Francis’s vision, he appealed to both progressive and conservative factions.
The Italian daily La Repubblica referred to him as “the least American of the Americans,” citing his soft-spoken nature and international experience.
Challenges Ahead
Pope Leo XIV faces numerous challenges, including healing divisions within the Church and addressing the ongoing sexual abuse crisis. His ability to unite diverse factions will be critical as he steps into his new role.
A Conclave of Historic Scale
This conclave was the most diverse in Church history, involving 133 cardinals under the age of 80 from 70 countries. Among them was Singaporean Cardinal William Goh. The process began on May 7 and concluded the next day after four voting rounds.
The relatively quick election follows a modern pattern, as both Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI were elected within two days. The longest papal election, by contrast, took nearly three years in the 13th century.
With his election, Pope Leo XIV begins a new chapter for the Catholic Church, representing a continuation of efforts toward global inclusivity and renewed spiritual leadership.