VATICAN CITY — In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected as the 267th pope, adopting the name Pope Leo XIV.
The announcement came on May 8, 2025, at approximately 6:07 p.m. local time, when white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, signaling that the conclave of 133 cardinal electors had reached a decision. Shortly thereafter, French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver the traditional Latin phrase, “Habemus Papam” (“We have a pope”), to the throngs gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
At 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV brings a wealth of international experience to the papacy. Born in Chicago, he joined the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and was ordained in 1982. His missionary work took him to Peru, where he served in various capacities, including as Bishop of Chiclayo from 2015 to 2023. In 2023, he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a role that positioned him at the heart of the Church’s leadership.
Pope Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away in April 2025 after a 12-year pontificate marked by significant reforms and efforts to modernize the Church. The election of an American pope represents a notable shift, as the College of Cardinals traditionally hesitated to elect a U.S. citizen due to concerns over perceived geopolitical influence.
The new pope’s choice of the name “Leo XIV” suggests a potential alignment with the legacy of Pope Leo XIII, known for his intellectual approach and social teachings. Observers anticipate that Pope Leo XIV will continue to navigate the Church through contemporary challenges, balancing tradition with the need for ongoing reform.
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, Catholics worldwide look forward to his leadership and the direction he will set for the future of the Church.
