VATICAN CITY, May 8, 2025 — The Catholic Church has a new leader. Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica that the College of Cardinals has elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Pope, who has taken the name Leo XIV. The announcement, met with cheers from thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square marks a historic moment as Prevost becomes the first American pope in the Church’s 2,000-year history.
White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney earlier today, signaling the successful conclusion of the conclave that began on May 7, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. The 133 cardinal electors, gathered in secrecy, chose Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago native with deep ties to Latin America, after several rounds of voting.
Pope Leo XIV, previously the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, is known for his pastoral approach and commitment to social justice, particularly for the poor and marginalized, aligning closely with the legacy of his predecessor. However, he holds conservative views on doctrinal issues, such as opposing the ordination of women as deacons and maintaining traditional stances on topics like gender ideology. His dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship and extensive missionary work in Peru have earned him a reputation as a bridge between diverse Catholic communities.
Appearing on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Urbi et Orbi blessing to the faithful, greeted by global anticipation for his leadership of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
The choice of the name Leo XIV invokes the legacy of Pope Leo XIII, known for his social teachings, and signals Prevost’s intent to balance tradition with engagement on modern issues. Vatican observers note that his election reflects a desire for continuity with Pope Francis’s reforms while restoring a focus on canonical order.
As the largest and most diverse conclave in history concludes, the global Catholic community looks to Pope Leo XIV to navigate the Church through a complex era of social, political, and doctrinal challenges.
