Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago native, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, marking a historic moment as the first American pope. The news has been met with widespread joy and excitement from Catholics and world leaders alike. Pope Leo XIV's first address emphasized peace and unity, reflecting his commitment to global harmony. His experience as a missionary and bishop, particularly in Peru, is expected to shape his papacy, with many hoping he will continue the work of Pope Francis. The new pope's election is seen as a sign of hope and renewal for the Catholic Church.
7 days ago
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, born in Chicago, has been elected Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time an American has held the position 6 13. Before his election, he served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops 6. He also served as a missionary and bishop in Peru for many years 3 6. Pope Leo XIV is of French and Italian descent on his father’s side and Spanish on his mother’s 6.
British bishops expressed "overjoyed" reactions to the election, pledging their support and prayers 1. Archbishop Malcolm McMahon spoke of a "profound sense of joy" 1. Southern African bishops conveyed gratitude and assured Pope Leo XIV of their unwavering support 2. African Church leaders hailed the election as a sign of hope for peace, noting his experience and commitment to unity 3. U.S. bishops also shared their joy and pledged their loyalty, with many taking to social media to express their sentiments 8 19.
World leaders have warmly welcomed Pope Leo XIV, viewing him as a messenger of peace 11. U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Pope Leo XIV, calling it "a great honor for our country" 7. Leaders from Latin America, especially Peru, expressed enthusiasm due to his service in the region 11. Other world leaders, including those from Canada, Italy, Ukraine, and Israel, conveyed their hopes for his papacy and its potential impact on global issues 11.
Pope Leo XIV's initial address emphasized peace and reconciliation 6 10. He spoke of building bridges and promoting dialogue 6. Many leaders hope he will prioritize social justice, defend the environment, and advocate for the poor and marginalized 3 11. His choice of the name Leo evokes Pope Leo XIII, known for his contributions to Catholic social teaching 3 6 22.
Peruvians are celebrating Pope Leo XIV, whom they consider "one of their own" due to his extensive service in the country 6 18. Peruvian President Dina Boluarte hailed his election as a historic moment for Peru 11. The Diocese of Chiclayo, where he previously served as bishop, is particularly joyous 5 6. Pope Leo XIV addressed the people of Chiclayo in Spanish during his first appearance 6 10.
Many American Catholics were surprised and overjoyed by the election of the first American pope 12 13. Some express hope that he will bring renewal and healing to the Church 20. Others hope he will address issues such as transparency and connecting with younger generations 20. EWTN's Michael Warsaw called it a "momentous" election, highlighting Pope Leo XIV's vast experience 9.
While there is no information about Cardinal Robert Prevost being elected Pope Leo XIV, I can provide information on how a Pope is elected.
The election of a new Pope is a significant event in the Catholic Church, guided by specific procedures and traditions. Here’s an overview of the process:
All Cardinals of the Catholic Church have the right to vote in a papal conclave, but they must be legitimately appointed, possess the use of reason, and be present in person . However, only those who have not reached their 80th birthday on the day the Apostolic See becomes vacant are eligible to participate in the election of the Pope . The maximum number of Cardinal electors is limited to 120 .
The conclave, the process of electing a new Pope, officially begins in the evening of the tenth day after the Pope's death, unless a different day has been assigned . During the vacancy of the Apostolic See, the College of Cardinals is entrusted with the governance of the Church solely for ordinary business and matters that cannot be postponed, and to prepare for the election of the new Pope .
The election of the Pope occurs within Vatican City, in designated areas and buildings that are closed to unauthorized personnel to ensure suitable accommodation for the Cardinal electors and those legitimately involved in the election process .
The Cardinals are required, under holy obedience, to obey the convocation announcement and proceed to the designated location for the election, unless hindered by sickness or another grave impediment recognized by the College of Cardinals . On the morning of the eleventh day, the Cardinals gather in the Pauline Chapel and attend the Mass of the Cardinal Dean . They receive Communion and listen to an allocution in Latin about their duty to choose the most worthy person for the Chair of Peter . Following the Mass, they proceed to the Sistine Chapel, where the voting takes place . Each Cardinal elector must swear to elect as pontiff the person he believes will benefit the universal Church in spiritual and temporal matters and is suitable for such a high dignity . They pledge not to give their vote to anyone they believe is aiming to be elected through promises or any other means .
The voting during the conclave is a secret process. After the formalities, the Cardinal electors approach the newly elected Pope to make an act of homage and obedience . A prayer of thanksgiving to God is offered, and the senior Cardinal Deacon announces to the people that the election has taken place and proclaims the name of the new Pope, who then imparts the Apostolic Blessing Urbi et Orbi from the balcony of the Vatican Basilica . If the elected person is not already a Bishop, he must be solemnly ordained as Bishop before the announcement of his election and the act of homage .
The conclave ends immediately after the new Pope accepts his election, unless he decides otherwise . From that moment, the Substitute of the Secretariat of State, the Secretary for Relations with States, the Prefect of the Papal Household, and anyone else needing to discuss important matters can approach the new Pope .
The election of a Pope is a sacred and complex process, steeped in tradition and guided by strict regulations to ensure the selection of a worthy leader for the Catholic Church.