Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, made history on May 8, 2025, by becoming the first pope from the United States, addressing a jubilant crowd from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. In his inaugural address, he emphasized a message of peace and unity, stating, "Peace be with you all. I want to offer a blessing of peace that will reach your families, all of you, wherever you are." His election follows the passing of Pope Francis just a day after Easter, on April 21, 2025.
The newly elected pontiff, a 69-year-old from Chicago, Illinois, stepped into his role as the 267th pope, following a conclave that convened 133 cardinals. The conclave concluded swiftly, with Leo XIV being elected on the second day, a notable achievement that suggests he impressed his peers during the secretive process.
In his first public words, Pope Leo XIV honored the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis, saying, "We have to seek together to be a missionary church. A church that builds bridges and dialogue." He called on the faithful to show charity and engage in loving dialogue, reinforcing the need for community and connection as he steps into his new role.
During his speech, Leo XIV also paid tribute to the late Pope Francis, whose compassionate leadership inspired many. He recalled, "We remember in our ears that weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis that blessed Rome … gave his blessing to the world, to the entire world that morning, on Easter Day." The new pope expressed his commitment to continuing Francis' mission of outreach and support for the marginalized.
Pope Leo XIV brings a wealth of experience to his new position, having previously served as the head of the Vatican's Dicastery for Bishops, where he was responsible for vetting candidates for bishop appointments. He also spent significant time as a missionary in Peru, which has shaped his understanding of global church issues. His connection to Peru is so strong that he switched from Italian to Spanish during his address, specifically to reach out to his "beloved diocese" in Chiclayo.
His election has sparked excitement not only among Catholics in the U.S. but also across the globe. Former U.S. President George W. Bush expressed his delight, stating, "This is a historic and hopeful moment for Catholics in America and for the faithful around the world." Meanwhile, President Donald Trump remarked, "It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!"
As Leo XIV embarks on his papacy, he inherits a church that has undergone significant transformation under Pope Francis. The previous pontiff shifted the church's focus away from divisive social issues to a more compassionate outreach to the poor and marginalized. This shift has created a complex landscape for Leo XIV, who must navigate between traditionalists and progressives within the church.
Analysts suggest that Leo XIV's past experiences and his commitment to dialogue will be crucial as he addresses ongoing challenges, including the church's image in the wake of scandals and the global political climate. His papacy is expected to be marked by efforts to maintain the church's mission of service while also addressing internal divisions.
The new pope's first official engagements include a Mass on the morning of May 9, 2025, at the Sistine Chapel, followed by delivering his first Sunday noon blessing from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica on May 11. He is also scheduled to hold an audience with the media on May 12, further establishing his presence as the leader of the world's 1.4 billion Catholics.
As the bells of St. Peter's Basilica rang out in celebration of his election, the crowd erupted in cheers, chanting "Viva il papa!" This moment marked not only a new chapter for the Catholic Church but also a significant milestone in its history, as the first American pope steps into a role that carries profound responsibilities and expectations.
In a world that often feels divided, Pope Leo XIV's call for peace and dialogue resonates deeply. He has committed to building bridges within the church and among its followers, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing humanity today. With a jubilee year ahead, the excitement surrounding his papacy is palpable, and many are eager to see how he will lead the church into the future.
