Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV, Making History as First American Pontiff

VATICAN CITY — May 9, 2025

Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV, Making History as First American Pontiff

In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement was made on the evening of May 8, 2025, as white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling the successful conclusion of the papal conclave.

Crowds erupted into celebration in St. Peter’s Square as Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the Protodeacon, delivered the traditional “Habemus Papam” declaration, introducing the new pope to the world. An estimated 150,000 pilgrims and onlookers had gathered to witness the momentous occasion.

Pope Leo XIV, 69, was born in Chicago and also holds Peruvian citizenship. He is a member of the Order of Saint Augustine and previously served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. His election marks the first time a U.S.-born cardinal has ascended to the papacy.

In his first Mass as pontiff held today inside the Sistine Chapel, Pope Leo XIV called on the global Church to remain a “beacon of light” in an age overshadowed by moral confusion, spiritual decline, and the pursuit of power and pleasure. His homily struck a tone of spiritual renewal and social responsibility.

The choice of the name Leo is widely seen as a tribute to Pope Leo XIII, remembered for his progressive stance on workers’ rights and social justice, signaling that the new pontiff may follow a similar path in addressing global inequalities and spiritual crises.

International reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. In Australia, Catholic leaders praised the new pope’s humility and vision. In the U.S., New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan voiced optimism that Leo XIV would build bridges with world leaders, including President Donald Trump.

A curious and symbolic moment occurred moments before the white smoke appeared: a baby seagull landed atop the Sistine Chapel, sparking speculation and awe among the crowd.

Pope Leo XIV’s formal inauguration Mass is scheduled for May 18 in St. Peter’s Square, where he will officially begin his leadership of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Vatican enters a new chapter under Pope Leo XIV.