On May 8, 2025, at approximately 6:10 PM local time, a historic moment unfolded in the Vatican as white smoke emerged from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. The new Pope, Robert Prevost, has made history as the first American Pope, adopting the name Leo XIV. This momentous event came after a conclave of 133 cardinals, who had gathered in the chapel to elect a successor following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025.
The announcement was met with jubilation in St. Peter's Square, where thousands of faithful had gathered to witness the event. As the white smoke billowed, cheers erupted, and the bells of St. Peter's Basilica rang out in celebration. People embraced and shared in the excitement, with many rushing through the streets of Rome toward the square to witness the announcement of the new Pope.
President Trump also expressed his excitement over the election, congratulating Prevost on social media platform Truth Social. He wrote, "Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who has just been appointed Pope. I am deeply honored to learn that he is the first American Pope. What an exciting moment and a tremendous honor for our country! I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. This will be a moment of great significance!" Trump's remarks highlight the pride many Americans feel regarding Prevost's historic election.
In his first address to the crowd, Pope Leo XIV extended a greeting of peace, saying, "Peace be with you." He explained that this greeting came from Christ, emphasizing his desire for peace to enter the hearts and homes of all. The Pope's heartfelt message resonated with the crowd, who responded enthusiastically as he waved and called for prayers to the Virgin Mary for blessings.
Born in Chicago, Prevost is 69 years old and has dedicated much of his career to missionary work in Peru. He was elevated to the rank of cardinal in 2023 and is known for his humility and commitment to serving others. His election marks a significant milestone not only for the United States but for the global Catholic community, which numbers approximately 1.4 billion members.
The conclave began on May 7, 2025, but the initial voting resulted in black smoke, indicating that no consensus had been reached among the cardinals. The voting process continued into May 8, with the cardinals needing at least two-thirds of the votes—89 out of 133—to elect a new Pope. The tradition of signaling the election results through smoke dates back centuries, with black smoke indicating no election and white smoke confirming a new Pope.
The election of a new Pope is steeped in tradition and secrecy. Cardinals are isolated during the conclave, and their discussions and votes are conducted in private to ensure confidentiality. This year's conclave was marked by a strict adherence to tradition, including dining rules that reflect the solemnity of the occasion. Historically, the cardinals have followed a regimen of simple meals during the conclave, a practice dating back to the reforms instituted by Pope Gregory X in 1274. Although the food restrictions have eased over the years, the spirit of moderation remains.
As part of the election process, once a cardinal receives the required majority, he is asked in Latin if he accepts the election as Supreme Pontiff. Upon consenting, he is then asked what name he wishes to be called. This ritual is followed by the burning of ballots, which produces the white smoke that announces the election to the world.
After the election, the new Pope enters the "Room of Tears" to change from his cardinal robes into the papal white garments, a moment of reflection and prayer before publicly addressing the faithful. Once dressed, he returns to the Sistine Chapel to participate in a brief ceremony where the Cardinal Protodeacon announces to the world, "We have a Pope!"
Pope Leo XIV's election comes at a time when the Catholic Church faces numerous challenges, including addressing issues of faith, morality, and the Church's role in a rapidly changing world. Prevost's leadership will be crucial in guiding the Church through these turbulent times, and many are hopeful that his background and experiences will bring a fresh perspective to the papacy.
The Vatican is now abuzz with anticipation as Pope Leo XIV prepares to take on his new responsibilities. His election not only marks a significant moment for the Catholic Church but also serves as a reminder of the global nature of the faith, with leaders from diverse backgrounds coming together to guide the Church's future.
As the world watches, Pope Leo XIV's journey as the first American Pope begins, and his leadership will undoubtedly shape the future of the Catholic Church for years to come.
