VATICAN, — On Wednesday evening, white smoke rose over the Sistine Chapel, announcing to the world the election of a new Pope. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old native of Chicago, became the 267th pontiff of the Catholic Church, choosing the name Pope Leo XIV. This is the first case in history where an American has sat on the Holy See.
Photo: Holy See Press Office
The election of Prevost took place after a two-day conclave, in which 133 cardinals from around the world participated. His candidacy was not among the favorites, but his many years of missionary activity in Peru, as well as his experience leading important Vatican departments, notably the Dicastery for Bishops, made him a compromise figure capable of uniting different factions of the church.
In his first speech from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo XIV addressed the faithful in Italian: "Peace be upon you. Dear brothers and sisters, this is the first greeting of the risen Christ. I would like to extend greetings of peace to your families, to all of you, wherever you are. May peace be with you." He also thanked the cardinals for their trust and called for unity and prayer.
Prevost was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, into a family with French, Italian, and Spanish roots. After earning a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Villanova University, he joined the Order of Saint Augustine. In 1982, he was ordained a priest, and later he went on missionary service to Peru, where he spent over 15 years working in various dioceses and seminaries. In 2014, Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo, and in 2023, he became Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.
Photo: Reuters
The election of an American to the papal throne became a historic precedent, reflecting the globalization of the Catholic Church and its pursuit of inclusivity. U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Prevost's election, calling it "a great recognition for America." Leaders of other countries, including Spain, France, and Ukraine, also expressed their greetings and hopes for fruitful cooperation with the new Pope.
Pope Leo XIV faces challenges of the modern world: restoring trust in the church after scandals, strengthening social justice, protecting the environment, and supporting the poor and oppressed. His experience, humility, and dedication to service offer hope for a new era in the history of the Catholic Church.
