Key Points
- Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago-born cardinal, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American and first Augustinian to lead the Catholic Church.
- Prevost’s election follows the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, and marks a new era for the 1.4 billion-member global Church.
- With decades of missionary work in Peru and a reputation for championing the marginalized, Pope Leo XIV is seen as a bridge-builder and advocate for reform.
- The historic choice was met with celebration in St. Peter’s Square and praise from world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump.
- Pope Leo XIV’s first words emphasized peace, dialogue, and continuity with his predecessor’s vision for a more inclusive Church.
New Delhi: In a momentous event for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago native with deep missionary roots in Peru, has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the name Leo XIV. This historic decision comes after the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, and marks the first time an American has ascended to the papacy.
A New Chapter for the Church
The announcement came on Thursday evening, as white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling to the world that a new pope had been chosen. Tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers as French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti proclaimed, “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”). Pope Leo XIV then appeared on the central balcony, offering his first blessing and greeting: “Peace be with all you,” a message that echoed his commitment to peace, dialogue, and unity.
The Life and Legacy of Pope Leo XIV
Born in Chicago on September 14, 1955, to parents of French, Italian, and Spanish descent, Robert Prevost entered the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and made his solemn vows in 1981. He earned degrees in mathematics and theology from Villanova University and the Catholic Theological Union, later completing advanced studies in canon law in Rome.
Prevost’s life has been marked by service to the marginalized. After his ordination in 1982, he spent decades as a missionary in Peru, working with poor communities, teaching at seminaries, and eventually serving as Bishop of Chiclayo. He also led the Augustinian order globally and was appointed by Pope Francis as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Continuity and Reform
Pope Leo XIV is widely seen as a figure of continuity with the reforms of Pope Francis, sharing a passion for social justice, care for migrants, and environmental stewardship. His experience in Latin America and his leadership roles in the Vatican position him to further the Church’s mission in a rapidly changing world.
Global and American Reactions
The election of the first American pope has been met with widespread celebration. U.S. President Donald Trump called it “a tremendous honor” for the nation and expressed eagerness to meet Pope Leo XIV. Other American leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, hailed the moment as a source of hope and pride for Catholics worldwide.
Farewell to Pope Francis
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, died on April 21 at age 88 after a stroke, ending a 12-year papacy marked by efforts to modernize the Church and promote inclusivity. His legacy of reform and compassion set the stage for Pope Leo XIV’s election and the Church’s ongoing journey.
Pope Leo XIV’s election is a historic milestone, blending American roots, Latin American experience, and Augustinian spirituality. As he begins his papacy, the world watches with hope for continued reform, unity, and a renewed mission of service.
