In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time a U.S. citizen has ascended to the papacy. The election occurred on May 8, 2025, during the second day of the conclave, where white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Vatican, signaling the cardinals' decision. Prevost, 69, originally from Chicago, has dual citizenship in the United States and Peru, where he has spent a significant portion of his ecclesiastical career.
Pope Leo XIV’s first public address to the gathered crowd in St. Peter’s Square was met with enthusiasm. "Peace be with you all," he stated, emphasizing his desire for his message of peace to resonate with everyone. He paid homage to his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Prevost expressed gratitude for Francis’ leadership and legacy, stating, "I hope this greeting of peace enters your hearts, reaches your families, every person, wherever they are."
Born on September 14, 1955, Prevost was ordained as a priest in 1982 and became a member of the Order of St. Augustine in 1977. His early ministry took him to Peru, where he worked in various capacities, including serving as the bishop of Chiclayo from 2014. In 2023, he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, a role that brought him closer to the Vatican's inner workings.
Prevost’s election is seen as a continuation of many of Pope Francis’ policies, particularly on social issues. However, he has also been noted for taking a firmer stance on certain matters, such as the ordination of women. He remarked, "Clericalizing women doesn’t necessarily solve a problem; it might make a new problem," indicating a cautious approach to change within the Church.
As Pope, he faces immediate challenges, including the upcoming 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, a pivotal moment in Christian history, and the postponed canonization of Carlo Acutis, a teenager known for his dedication to the faith. The Synod on Synodality, an ongoing reform project initiated by Pope Francis, will also be a significant focus for Leo XIV, as he aims to navigate its implementation over the next few years.
Despite the optimism surrounding his election, Prevost’s papacy begins under a cloud of controversy. He is one of six cardinals accused by the Survivor Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) of covering up sexual abuse within the Church. The organization has called for the new pope to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards abuse, emphasizing that the Church must regain credibility regarding children's rights.
International reactions to Prevost's election have been varied yet largely positive. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his congratulations, expressing hope for Leo XIV to foster reconciliation among faiths. Conversely, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the Holy See’s consistent stance on international law, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Prevost’s dual citizenship has also sparked discussions about the implications of having an American pope. While many celebrate this milestone, some critics argue that it reinforces the United States' already significant geopolitical influence. Rebecca Tabiani, a resident of Rome, expressed her disappointment, stating, "I think it should have gone elsewhere, because as an American living abroad I am ashamed of what’s going on at home right now."
As the new pontiff prepares for his first full schedule, including leading Mass in the Sistine Chapel and meeting with journalists, he is seen as a bridge-builder who might unify the Church’s diverse global congregation. Father Gregory Sakowicz from the Chicago Archdiocese believes that Prevost will be a strong advocate for immigration and human rights, stating, "He will be a voice for the voiceless, serving with great faith."
Pope Leo XIV’s papacy is expected to focus on the Church’s outreach to marginalized communities, both in the U.S. and abroad. His first homily emphasized the need for humility and a commitment to serving those in need. "A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life," he remarked, calling for a renewed mission to address the crises facing society today.
In the days following his election, the Vatican has seen a surge in interest, with souvenir vendors quickly producing items commemorating the new pope. As crowds gather in St. Peter’s Square to witness this historic moment, many are hopeful that Pope Leo XIV will lead the Church into a new era of compassion and understanding.
As he embarks on this monumental journey, the world watches closely, eager to see how the first American pope will navigate the complexities of modern Catholicism while honoring the legacy of his predecessor.
