In a landmark moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the new pope, making history as the first American to assume the papacy.
The 69-year-old stepped onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to a wave of applause and cheers from thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, where he was formally introduced to the world as Pope Leo XIV.
Originally from Chicago, Prevost has been widely respected for his extensive work in Latin America and his leadership as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. His election signals a notable shift in the global leadership of the Catholic Church, underscoring the rising influence of the Americas within the faith.
“Fratelli e sorelle, buonasera,” Pope Leo greeted the faithful, echoing the iconic words of his predecessor, Pope Francis, during his 2013 election. He spoke with humility and a profound sense of responsibility, urging unity, compassion, and a revitalized commitment to faith.
Pope Leo succeeds Pope Francis, who stepped down earlier this year citing declining health. After several days of deliberation, the conclave of cardinals reportedly reached a consensus on Prevost, recognizing him as a unifying figure with both strong pastoral experience and proven administrative skill.
