Robert Prevost Becomes First American Pope, Taking the Name Leo XIV
In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected as the 267th pope on May 8, 2025, becoming the first American-born pontiff. He has chosen the papal name Leo XIV. The announcement was made by French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti with the traditional Latin phrase “Habemus Papam,” as white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney at 6:08 PM CET, signaling the conclusion of the conclave.
At 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV brings a wealth of experience to the papacy. Born in Chicago in 1955, he was ordained a priest in 1982 and later served extensively in Peru, where he led the Augustinian seminary in Trujillo and became the Bishop of Chiclayo. His missionary work in Peru led to his naturalization as a Peruvian citizen.
In 2023, Prevost was appointed as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a role in which he oversaw the selection of new bishops worldwide. He was elevated to the College of Cardinals later that year. Known for his administrative acumen and commitment to pastoral care, he emphasized the importance of bishops being “shepherds who walk joyfully with the people of God.”
Pope Leo XIV’s election follows the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025. Francis, the first Latin American pope, served for 12 years and was known for his efforts to modernize the Church and address issues such as financial transparency and sexual abuse scandals. New York Post
The conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV was notable for its size and diversity, comprising 133 voting cardinals, the largest in history. Prevost emerged as a consensus candidate, seen as a centrist who could bridge the gap between progressive and conservative factions within the Church.
In his first address as pope, Leo XIV expressed gratitude and a commitment to unity and peace. He is expected to continue many of the reforms initiated by his predecessor, while also bringing his own perspective shaped by years of missionary work and pastoral leadership. LOS40
As the first American pope, Leo XIV’s election marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, reflecting its growing global diversity and the increasing prominence of the Americas in its leadership.
