Vatican City, May 8, 2025 / 12:11 pm
White smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel today at 6:09 p.m. Rome time, signaling that the College of Cardinals has chosen a new pope. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been selected as the next pope, making history as the first American pontiff. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV.
In his first remarks as pope from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV called for peace and paid tribute to the late Pope Francis, whose legacy he is expected to build upon. "Peace be with you," he said, addressing the roaring crowd gathered below.
Pope Leo XIV, a 69-year-old from Chicago, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He spent significant time as a missionary in South America and served as bishop in Peru. Most recently, he led the influential Dicastery for Bishops at the Vatican, where he was responsible for bishop appointments. His election comes after a two-day conclave that gathered 133 cardinals, all of whom were sequestered in the Vatican since May 7.
The voting process required that any cardinal needed two-thirds of the votes to be elected. The announcement of the new pope was made just after 11 a.m. Central Time in the United States on May 8, 2025. Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti confirmed the election, stating, "I announce to you a great joy; we have a Pope: The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord, Lord Robert Francis Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church Prevost who has taken the name Leo XIV."
The Vatican shared images of the famous white smoke that indicated the cardinals had finally reached a consensus. Earlier in the day, just after 5 a.m. Central Time, black smoke had billowed from the chimney, indicating that the cardinals were still divided on their choice.
As the new leader of the 1.4 billion-strong Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV is expected to carry forward the reforms initiated by Pope Francis, focusing on issues such as social justice and environmental stewardship. His experience as a missionary and his leadership in the Vatican are seen as assets that will help him navigate the challenges ahead.
The conclave process involves a series of secret ballots, where each cardinal votes in front of Michelangelo's renowned fresco, the Last Judgment. If a candidate does not receive the necessary votes, the ballots are burned, producing black smoke. When a candidate is elected, white smoke is released, signaling the decision to the world.
The Vatican News reported, "White smoke! The 133 Cardinal electors gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel have elected the new Pope. He will appear soon at the central window of St. Peter’s Basilica." This moment has sparked celebrations among Catholics worldwide, many of whom rushed to St. Peter's Square to witness the announcement.
Robert Francis Prevost's election marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, as he becomes the first American to hold the papacy. His background as a Chicago-born prelate who spent years serving in Peru showcases his commitment to the global church and its diverse membership.
In a world grappling with numerous challenges, including political tensions and social injustice, Pope Leo XIV's call for peace resonates deeply. His leadership style is expected to reflect the compassionate and inclusive approach championed by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
As the Catholic Church embarks on this new chapter, many are eager to see how Pope Leo XIV will address ongoing issues within the church and the broader world. His commitment to the values of peace and service will likely guide his papacy as he seeks to unite Catholics and engage with contemporary societal challenges.
This story is still developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding Pope Leo XIV's plans and initiatives during his papacy.
