On May 8, 2025, the Vatican made a historic decision by electing American Robert Prevost as the new head of the Catholic Church, who will now be known as Pope Leo XIV. This significant event was marked by the emergence of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling the conclusion of the conclave and the selection of a successor to Pope Francis.
As the smoke billowed into the sky, crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square erupted into cheers, celebrating the momentous occasion. People jumped for joy, some praying and others expressing their excitement about witnessing this unique experience. Among those celebrating were a couple from Greece, who shared their anticipation of seeing the new pope appear on the balcony. The sound of ringing bells echoed across the square, amplifying the jubilant atmosphere.
Pope Leo XIV, born in Chicago and now 69 years old, addressed the enthusiastic crowd from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica shortly after his election. He began his first speech in Italian, saying, "Que la paix soit avec vous tous" (May peace be with you all). He emphasized the importance of peace, extending his greetings to families and communities worldwide. "God loves us all, unconditionally," he stated, underscoring his commitment to spreading a message of love and unity.
In his inaugural address, the new pope paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, expressing his intent to carry on the legacy of reaching out to marginalized communities. He stated, "Humanity needs Christ as a bridge to be joined by God and His love. Help us, and help each other, to build bridges." This sentiment reflects a core theme of his papacy—building connections and fostering dialogue among diverse groups.
Following his initial remarks, Pope Leo XIV thanked the cardinals who elected him during the two-day conclave. His election was seen as a move towards continuity, as the cardinals aimed to choose someone who would maintain the compassionate outreach initiated by Pope Francis. The conclave concluded with a swift decision, requiring only four rounds of voting, indicating a strong consensus among the cardinals regarding Prevost's suitability for the role.
Robert Prevost's journey to the papacy is noteworthy. He not only holds American nationality but has also been a Peruvian citizen since 2015. His extensive experience in Peru, where he served as the bishop of Chiclayo until 2023, has shaped his understanding of the Church's mission in diverse environments. From 2018 to 2023, he was a member of the Peruvian Episcopal Conference (CEP), where he held significant roles, including second vice-president and apostolic administrator of Callao from 2020 to 2021.
Until his election, Prevost was the president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, a position that underscored his dedication to the region and its challenges. His close relationship with Pope Francis, who appointed him to lead the Dicastery of Bishops in 2023, positioned him as a trusted advisor within the Vatican.
In a 2024 interview with Vatican News, Prevost articulated his vision for the role of a bishop, stating, "A bishop should not be a little prince sitting in his kingdom; he must be close to the people he serves and walk with them, suffer with them." This philosophy resonates with his commitment to pastoral care and community engagement.
Prevost's background is rich with experience, having spent two decades in Peru, where he immersed himself in missionary work and became the archbishop-bishop emeritus of Chiclayo. His reputation within the Vatican is that of a moderate, able to bridge differing viewpoints while maintaining a focus on the Church's mission.
Born on September 14, 1955, Prevost entered the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and was ordained a priest in 1982. His academic credentials include a degree in theology and another in mathematics, showcasing his intellectual versatility. In 2014, he was appointed apostolic administrator of the diocese of Chiclayo, a role that further solidified his leadership within the Church.
As the new pope, Prevost's approach is expected to reflect both continuity and change. He recognizes the evolving landscape of the Church and the need to adapt to contemporary challenges. "We cannot stop; we cannot go back. We must see what the Holy Spirit wants for the Church today and tomorrow," he stated, emphasizing the importance of relevance in a changing world.
His election is viewed as a hopeful sign for many, as he brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate outlook to the papacy. Observers noted that the cardinals favored Prevost for his experience on the ground, his global vision, and his ability to navigate the complexities of Vatican bureaucracy. His deep understanding of canon law also reassured conservative cardinals who seek a stronger focus on theology.
With Pope Leo XIV at the helm, the Catholic Church enters a new chapter, one that promises to uphold the spirit of outreach and inclusivity while addressing the pressing issues facing modern society. His commitment to building bridges among diverse communities sets a hopeful tone for his papacy, as he leads the Church in its mission to serve all of humanity.
