Leon XIV Elected As New Pope Amid Global Celebration

In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel on Thursday, May 8, 2025, elected Robert Francis Prevost as the new pope, taking the name Leon XIV. The election was marked by the emergence of white smoke from the chapel's chimney around 6 PM, signaling that the cardinals had reached a decision. The joyous announcement was met with cheers from thousands of people gathered in St. Peter's Square, celebrating the election of the 267th pope.

Leon XIV addressed the faithful, conveying a heartfelt message of peace and unity. In his initial remarks, he stated, "Peace be with you all. Dear brothers and sisters, this is the first greeting of the risen Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down his life for the flock of God. I also wish for this greeting of peace to reach our hearts, to touch your families, to all people, wherever they are, to all nations, to the whole Earth." His words resonated deeply with the crowd, as he continued to emphasize the importance of love and unity among humanity.

During his address, Leon XIV acknowledged the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis, stating, "We still hear in our ears the faint but ever brave voice of Pope Francis, who blessed Rome. The Pope who blessed Rome gives his blessing to the whole world this morning on Easter Sunday." He reminded the faithful that "God loves us all unconditionally, and evil will not prevail. We are all in God's hands, and therefore, without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we move forward."

Expressing gratitude, Leon XIV thanked the cardinals who elected him as the successor to Saint Peter, saying, "I want to thank all my brother cardinals who chose me to be the successor of Saint Peter and to walk together with you as a united Church, always seeking peace and justice, striving always to work as faithful men and women of Jesus Christ, unafraid to proclaim the Gospel and to be missionaries."

His message extended to the Church in Rome, as he urged, "We must strive together to be a missionary Church, a Church that builds bridges of dialogue, always open to welcome, like this square with open arms; open to all who need our love, our presence, and dialogue."

The conclave that led to the election of Leon XIV was notable for its record number of participants, with 133 cardinal electors involved. It began on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, and lasted approximately one day. The election process required a two-thirds majority, meaning that Leon XIV secured at least 89 votes from the electors.

Following the election, the newly elected pope answered the cardinal deacon's question about accepting his election and the name he would take. After affirming his acceptance, he proceeded to the so-called "Room of Tears," where he donned the white papal cassock for the first time, a moment filled with significance as he transitioned from cardinal to pope.

Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti will announce the famous words "Habemus papam" (We have a pope) from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, marking the official unveiling of the new pope to the world. This announcement will reveal both the name and the identity of the newly elected leader of the Catholic Church.

As the final preparations unfolded in the Sistine Chapel, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. The cardinal deacon would formally ask the elected candidate if he accepted the election as pope, and upon confirmation, the new pope would choose his name. The Gammarelli tailoring workshop had prepared three sizes of white papal cassocks, ensuring that the new pope would find a suitable fit for his new role.

Once dressed in the white cassock, the newly elected pope would return to the Sistine Chapel, where he would be addressed formally by the presiding cardinal, marking the beginning of his papacy. This ceremony is steeped in tradition, with the first cardinal deacon announcing the joyful news to the world.

The new pope's first appearance to the faithful will be a momentous occasion, as he will bless the city and the world (Urbi et orbi), a tradition that has been upheld by popes throughout history. This moment will not only signify the start of his papacy but also serve as a powerful reminder of the Church's mission to spread love and hope.

In reflecting on the significance of the conclave and the election of a new pope, many observers noted the historical context. The election of Leon XIV comes at a time when the Catholic Church faces numerous challenges, including issues of unity, social justice, and the ongoing need for dialogue within and outside the Church. The new pope's call for peace and inclusivity will likely resonate with many as he embarks on his journey to lead the Church.

As the world awaits the official announcement from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, the excitement and hope surrounding the election of Leon XIV signal a new chapter for the Catholic Church. His commitment to building bridges and fostering dialogue reflects a vision that many hope will guide the Church in the years to come.