Rome
Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the new pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.
This historic moment marks the first time in the 2,000-year history of the Roman Catholic Church that an American has ascended to the papacy.
Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV (pictured) is 69 years old and has had a distinguished career within the Church. He served as a missionary in Peru for two decades, where he became a naturalised citizen and was deeply involved in ministering to the poor and marginalised. His extensive experience in Latin America earned him the nickname “Latin Yankee” in Rome. Before his election, he led the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful office responsible for overseeing the selection of bishops worldwide.
The conclave that elected him concluded swiftly, with 133 cardinals participating and reaching a decision after just four ballots over two days. The announcement was made from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica at 6:07 p.m. Rome time, following the traditional white smoke and ringing of bells that signal the election of a new pope.
In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV emphasised peace and unity, stating, “Peace be with you.” He expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Pope Francis, and called for the Church to “move forward, without fear, united, hand in hand with God and with each other.”
Pope Leo XIV’s election comes at a time when the Church faces numerous challenges, including internal divisions, the legacy of clerical sexual abuse and the need for evangelisation in a rapidly changing world. His background suggests a commitment to addressing these issues with compassion and a focus on unity.
