In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the 267th Pope on Thursday, May 8, 2025, adopting the name Leo XIV. This significant event unfolded shortly after white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling a consensus among the 133 cardinals gathered for the conclave.
The announcement of Prevost's election came after the third ballot of the day and the fourth overall since voting began on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. The sight of white smoke sent waves of excitement through the crowd in St. Peter's Square, marking the end of a brief but intense period of deliberation.
At 69 years old, Prevost is notable for being the first pope from the United States. Born in Chicago, he has spent a significant portion of his religious life in Peru, earning him the nickname "pastor of two homelands." His deep connection to Latin America is expected to play a crucial role in his papacy.
Prevost's election is steeped in tradition, as he chose the name Leo XIV, a title previously held by 13 popes. The name Leo symbolizes leadership and wisdom, values associated with historical figures like Saint Leo I, who served as pope from 440 to 461. Saint Leo I is particularly remembered for his diplomatic prowess, notably negotiating with Attila the Hun to spare Rome from invasion. By adopting this name, Prevost aims to align his papacy with the strength and wisdom of his predecessors.
Following his appearance on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, Prevost returned to the Sistine Chapel for a brief ceremony. This included readings from the Gospel and an oath of obedience from the cardinal electors. The ceremony concluded with the singing of the "Te Deum" led by the newly elected pope.
Prevost's background is marked by extensive experience in both the United States and Peru. He was appointed bishop of Chiclayo in 2015 after serving as the apostolic administrator of the diocese since 2014. His tenure in Peru has been characterized by a commitment to community engagement and innovative projects, which earned him recognition and respect within the local church.
Educated at Villanova University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences, Prevost also holds a Master’s in Theology and both a Licentiate and Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical College of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome. His academic and pastoral experiences have equipped him with a profound understanding of the church's structure and the complexities of its governance.
Prevost's relationship with Pope Francis has been particularly close, as he was appointed prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in January 2023. This role placed him at the heart of the church's leadership and involved him in significant decisions regarding the appointment of bishops worldwide. His promotion to cardinal-bishop in September 2023 further underscored his growing influence within the Vatican.
Despite his accomplishments, Prevost's rise to the papacy has not been without controversy. Allegations have surfaced regarding his handling of sexual abuse cases during his time as bishop in Peru. Reports indicate that the diocese may have paid $150,000 to silence three girls who accused priests of abuse. While Prevost has faced criticism for his management of these cases, his supporters assert that he followed the appropriate procedures and took steps to address the allegations.
Throughout his career, Prevost has been known for his moderate views on various issues. He aligns closely with Pope Francis's vision regarding environmental concerns, assistance for the poor and migrants, and the importance of meeting people where they are. However, he has shown less enthusiasm for engaging with the LGBTQIA+ community compared to his predecessor.
As he embarks on his papacy, Prevost's commitment to continuing the reforms initiated by Pope Francis is expected to shape his leadership style. He has expressed a desire to foster a more inclusive and participatory church, advocating for synodality as a means to address polarization within the church.
Prevost’s election is seen as a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, particularly in light of the challenges it faces globally. His unique background and experiences may offer a fresh perspective as the church navigates contemporary issues and strives to connect with a diverse and evolving congregation.
In his first public address as Pope Leo XIV, he paid tribute to Pope Francis, acknowledging the profound impact of his predecessor's leadership and vision for the church. The new pope's focus on unity and healing is likely to resonate with many as he begins his journey as the spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide.
As the world watches, the expectations for Leo XIV are high. His ability to balance tradition with the pressing needs of modern society will be crucial in determining the direction of the Catholic Church in the years to come. With a blend of humility and resolve, Prevost steps into a role that carries immense responsibility and profound significance.
