VATICAN CITY — In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected as the first pope from the United States on May 8, 2025. The 69-year-old American missionary, who has spent a significant part of his career in Peru, took the papal name Leo XIV, marking a new chapter in the church's leadership.
The election took place during the second day of a conclave attended by 133 cardinals, gathered to select a successor to the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025. The announcement of Prevost's election was met with white smoke billowing from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that a new pope had been chosen.
As the newly elected Pope Leo XIV appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he waved to the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square, who erupted in applause. His first words were a heartfelt greeting, "Peace be with you," echoing the sentiments of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Prevost, a Chicago native, has a rich background in missionary work and church leadership. His journey began in the seminary of the Order of St. Augustine in St. Louis, followed by studies at Villanova University, where he earned a degree in mathematics. He later received a master’s degree in divinity and a doctorate in canon law in Rome.
His extensive experience in Peru, where he served as a judicial vicar and bishop of Chiclayo, has shaped his pastoral approach. He was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in January 2023 and was appointed prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a position that entrusted him with advising the pope on bishop appointments.
Prevost's election is seen as a significant shift within the Vatican, as he represents a more moderate and pastoral approach compared to some of his predecessors. Known for his soft-spoken demeanor and ability to navigate complex church politics, Prevost has been described by Italian newspaper La Repubblica as "the least American of the Americans," highlighting his deep connections to Latin America.
His election has been welcomed by progressive factions within the church, although it has raised eyebrows among more conservative cardinals who may have hoped for a different outcome. The Vatican has historically been cautious about electing a pope from a political superpower like the United States, given the global influence and cultural reach of the country.
In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of peace, dialogue, and missionary work, reflecting the values he has upheld throughout his career. His commitment to serving "the peripheries"—areas often overlooked by the church—was a key focus during his time in Peru, aligning with the priorities set by Pope Francis.
Prevost's reputation as a bridge-builder among diverse theological perspectives will be crucial as he leads the Catholic Church, which faces numerous challenges in an increasingly secular world. His ability to maintain a sense of humor and joy, even amid difficulties, has been noted by colleagues and friends alike.
As the first pope from the U.S., Prevost's election is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of the changing dynamics within the church. His dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru positions him uniquely to address the needs of a global congregation, with over 1.4 billion Catholics looking to him for guidance.
The response to his election has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing hope that Prevost will continue the legacy of inclusivity and compassion championed by Pope Francis. His strong grounding in canon law reassures more conservative factions of the church, while his pastoral experience resonates with those advocating for a more progressive approach.
Donald Trump, who commented on the election, described it as "a great honor for our country," despite the historical tensions between his administration and Pope Francis over issues like immigration and climate change. Trump's remarks highlight the complex relationship between politics and religion, particularly in the context of a U.S. pope.
As Pope Leo XIV embarks on his papacy, he carries the weight of expectations from both progressive and conservative factions within the church. His leadership style, characterized by humility and openness, will be essential as he navigates the challenges ahead.
In the days following his election, many will be watching closely to see how Pope Leo XIV addresses pressing global issues and whether he can unite a church that often finds itself divided along ideological lines. His commitment to dialogue and peace will be key themes as he begins this new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.
The world eagerly awaits the direction Pope Leo XIV will take, as he steps into a role that not only influences the lives of millions of Catholics but also shapes the broader discourse on morality, social justice, and the church's role in the modern world.
