Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, an American, has been elected as the new Pope, taking the name Leo XIV. The election, which took place on May 8, 2025, marks a historic first for the Catholic Church. The 69-year-old Augustinian friar, previously served as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and has a background as a missionary in Peru. The announcement was met with celebration and joy, as Catholics worldwide welcome their new leader.
9 days ago
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church on May 8, 2025, taking the name Leo XIV 4 7. White smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election after the fourth round of voting 5 10. The bells of St. Peter's Basilica confirmed the news, prompting cheers from the crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square 4 7. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the protodeacon, announced "Habemus Papam" from the central balcony 4 8.
Pope Leo XIV is the first American citizen to ascend to the papacy 1 2. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost spent a significant portion of his life outside the United States, which likely contributed to his acceptance by the College of Cardinals 2 4 6. His election defies the conventional belief that a citizen of a superpower nation would not be chosen as Pope 6.
Born on September 14, 1955, Prevost received a mathematics degree from Villanova University before entering the Order of Saint Augustine 2 8. He was ordained a priest in 1982 2. He then served as a missionary in Peru for many years 1 2 4. He later became the Bishop of Chiclayo 2 8. In 2023, he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops 1 2 4 8. He is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian 2.
In his first address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized themes of peace, dialogue, and unity 1. He spoke of God's unconditional love and the need for the Church to be a reconciliatory presence in a divided world 1 3 5. The new Pope inherits a Church facing numerous challenges, including internal issues related to synodality and external issues such as global conflicts and poverty 1 6. He also faces management concerns, including a looming pension deficit for Vatican employees and the unfinished work of addressing clergy sexual abuse 6.
Allegations have surfaced regarding Cardinal Prevost's handling of clergy sexual abuse cases during his time in the Diocese of Chiclayo 4 7 9. Specifically, he was accused of failing to open an investigation into abuse accusations against two priests in 2022 4. The diocese has vigorously denied these claims 4 9.
The election of Pope Leo XIV has been met with joy and hope by the Catholic community worldwide 5. His selection of the name "Leo" signals a continuity with previous popes who championed doctrinal clarity and social responsibility 1. As the first American Pope, his leadership is expected to bring a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing the Church in the 21st century 6.
I cannot provide information about future events, including the election of a new Pope. The election of a Pope is a complex process involving the College of Cardinals, guided by the Holy Spirit, and takes place under specific circumstances defined by the Apostolic Constitution Universi Dominici Gregis.
The process includes:
The Church teaches that the Holy Spirit guides the Cardinals in their decision to elect a new Pope.