Vatican City – In a historic turn of events, U.S. Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the new pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. This announcement was made on May 8, 2025, following a conclave that began on May 7, and was signaled by the billowing of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel's chimney, a traditional indicator of a successful papal election. Prevost, originally from Chicago, becomes the first American to ascend to the papacy, marking a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church.
As Pope Leo XIV, he inherits a complex legacy from his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Pope Francis was known for his compassionate leadership but faced criticism from some quarters, particularly regarding his views on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine expressed hope for continued support from the Vatican, stating, “Ukraine deeply values the Holy See’s consistent position in upholding international law, condemning the Russian Federation’s military aggression against Ukraine.”
The election of Pope Leo XIV comes at a time of heightened tensions in Europe, particularly with Russia's ongoing military actions in Ukraine. Despite a announced truce from May 8 to 11, heavy fighting persisted in various regions, underscoring the volatile situation. A recent survey conducted between April 24 and May 4 revealed that 56.9% of respondents in Ukraine would not compromise on territorial integrity or the country’s pro-Western stance in any negotiations with Moscow.
Pope Leo XIV's election has been met with widespread acclaim from political and religious leaders. Irish President Michael D. Higgins congratulated the new pontiff, calling it an "immensely significant moment" and expressing hope for his leadership to embody compassion and justice. Higgins emphasized Ireland's long-standing relationship with the Holy See, looking forward to deepening that connection under Pope Leo XIV.
Bishop of Derry Donal McKeown, who met Cardinal Prevost last October, described him as a “most amenable person,” praising his respectful and courteous demeanor. Bishop of Down and Connor Alan McGuckian expressed joy at the election, highlighting the Pope's call for peace and unity amidst global conflict.
Political figures in Ireland also voiced their support. First Minister Michelle O’Neill remarked that the election was a “day of profound significance for Catholics in Ireland and worldwide,” hoping that the new Pope would champion the marginalized and oppressed. Meanwhile, Social Democratic and Labour Party leader Claire Hanna noted the importance of the Pope’s role in reflecting the needs of a changing world.
Caritas Internationalis, the charitable arm of the Church, welcomed Pope Leo XIV with open arms, emphasizing their commitment to support him in promoting peace and charity. Cardinal Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi, President of Caritas Internationalis, stated, “Caritas is not just an aid agency – it is a manifestation of God’s love in action.” The organization is eager to collaborate with Pope Leo XIV to address pressing global issues, including poverty and climate change.
In his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV reminded the faithful of the Church’s universality, stating, “God loves us, all of us.” He encouraged everyone to be heralds of peace, urging a collective effort to foster unity in a world fraught with division and conflict.
The new Pope’s choice of the name Leo carries significant historical weight, coinciding with the upcoming 134th anniversary of Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical, Rerum Novarum, which focused on social justice and the Church’s commitment to the welfare of the poor. This connection signals a potential emphasis on social issues during Pope Leo XIV’s papacy.
As the global community reflects on this pivotal moment, many are hopeful that Pope Leo XIV will continue the legacy of compassion and humanity established by Pope Francis while addressing the urgent challenges facing the Church and the world today. From the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to the pressing issues of climate change and social inequality, the new pontiff’s leadership will be closely scrutinized as he embarks on this new chapter in the Catholic Church’s history.
The election of Pope Leo XIV not only marks a new era for the Catholic Church but also for American Catholics, who see this as a momentous occasion. Sean Callahan, President and CEO of Catholic Relief Services, expressed excitement for the new Pope’s leadership, stating, “This is a momentous occasion for American Catholics and, as the humanitarian organization for the U.S. Church, CRS is proud to mark his historic election.”
As the world watches closely, the hope is that Pope Leo XIV will lead with wisdom and compassion, addressing the needs of the faithful and advocating for peace and justice in a turbulent world.
