In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the new Pope, taking the name Leon XIV. This marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first American to hold the papacy. The announcement was made on Thursday, May 8, 2025, following a conclave that concluded with white smoke signaling his election at 18:08 local time (16:08 GMT).
More than 150,000 people gathered in St. Peter's Square to witness the momentous occasion, erupting in cheers as the new Pope made his first appearance. The excitement was palpable, with the crowd celebrating the news that had been anticipated since the death of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
The Royal House of Spain congratulated Leon XIV on his election, emphasizing his call for peace. They stated, "His call for peace inspires and encourages us," reflecting the sentiments of many world leaders who have expressed hope for a peaceful and unifying papacy.
French President Emmanuel Macron also extended his congratulations, expressing confidence that Leon XIV's pontificate would bring peace and hope to the world. In a message shared on social media, Macron stated, "This is a historic moment for the Catholic Church and its millions of faithful. May the new pontificate be a bearer of peace and hope."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski joined in the congratulations, hoping that Leon XIV would continue to offer moral and spiritual support to Ukraine, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelenski expressed gratitude for the Vatican's previous support and stated, "In this decisive moment for our country, we hope that the moral and spiritual support from the Vatican continues as we strive for justice and peace."
Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, highlighted the significance of Leon XIV's election for American relations with the Vatican. He remarked, "The United States hopes to deepen its long-standing relationship with the Holy See with the first American pontiff. This is a moment of profound importance for the Catholic Church, offering renewed hope and continuity amid the Jubilee Year of 2025 for over a billion faithful worldwide."
The leaders of the European Union also expressed their eagerness to collaborate closely with the new Pope to address global challenges. Ursula Von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and António Costa, President of the European Council, both congratulated Leon XIV, stating, "We wish that his leadership inspires the world with peace and dialogue."
As the new Pope prepares to begin his papacy, he will embark on a series of traditional rites and ceremonies. Following the announcement of his election, Leon XIV will celebrate a private mass with the cardinals in the Sistine Chapel on May 9, 2025. His first public mass will include the imposition of the pallium and the Fisherman's Ring, symbols of his papal authority.
In his inaugural address, Leon XIV expressed his desire for peace, stating, "May my greeting of peace reach the entire Earth." He also took a moment to thank his predecessor, Pope Francis, for his service to the Church. The new Pope greeted his former diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, in Spanish, highlighting his maternal Spanish roots.
The conclave that led to Leon XIV's election was notably swift, lasting less than 24 hours and requiring only four votes to secure a two-thirds majority of 89 votes. This efficiency was unexpected, as many had anticipated a longer deliberation period among the cardinals.
As the excitement surrounding the new pontiff unfolds, a re-release of the film "Conclave" coincides with the real-life election process. The psychological thriller, starring Ralph Fiennes, explores the intense dynamics and tensions within the Vatican during a papal election. The film is set to be shown in various theaters across Mexico starting on the same day as the election, providing audiences with a dramatic insight into the secretive workings of the Church.
"Conclave" begins with the death of a Pope and the immediate summoning of cardinals to the Vatican, capturing the intricate political and personal tensions that arise during the election process. The film's re-release aims to enhance public understanding of the complexities involved in selecting a new Pope, paralleling the current events in Rome.
In a time marked by global challenges and the need for unity, Leon XIV's election has sparked hope and optimism among many. As he steps into his role as the 267th Pope, the world watches closely, eager to see how his leadership will shape the future of the Catholic Church and its role on the global stage.
The new Pope, Robert Francis Prevost, is not only American but also holds Peruvian nationality, having been naturalized in 2015. This unique background adds to the significance of his election, as he represents a bridge between cultures and nations.
In summary, the election of Leon XIV heralds a new chapter for the Catholic Church, with expectations for a papacy focused on peace, dialogue, and moral leadership. As he embarks on this sacred journey, the world awaits his guidance and vision for the future.
