Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States has been elected as the new Pope, taking the name Leo XIV. This marks the first time in the history of the Roman Catholic Church that an American citizen has been chosen as Pope, according to a report by Reuters.
The announcement came on Thursday, May 8 (local Vatican time), when white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the 133 cardinal electors had selected a new Pope. About 70 minutes later, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti formally introduced the new Pope with the traditional Latin phrase “Habemus Papam” (We have a Pope), in front of thousands gathered at St. Peter’s Square.
Born in Chicago, 69-year-old Robert Prevost spent most of his life as a missionary in Peru. He was appointed Cardinal in 2023. Known for his reserved nature, he rarely gives interviews or makes public statements.
The new election follows the death of Pope Francis last month, who passed away after serving for 12 years. Pope Francis was the first Latin American Pope and was known for initiating modern and open discussions within the Catholic Church, including debates on female priesthood and LGBTQ inclusion—issues that challenged traditional views.