In a moment that will go down in the history of the Catholic Church, Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected the new leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics. The Vatican announced his election on Thursday, marking the first time an American has ascended to the papacy.
Prevost, a seasoned clergyman known for his moderate stance and deep pastoral experience, will be the 267th pope. He has chosen the papal name Leo XIV, honoring a legacy of reform minded predecessors while signaling a possible continuation of inclusive leadership.
Shortly after the conclave of cardinals concluded, Prevost stepped onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square and millions watching around the world. His election comes after years of service both at the heart of the Vatican and as a missionary in Peru, a background many Vatican analysts believe shaped his vision of a globally engaged, compassionate Church.
Prevost’s close ties with former Pope Francis are seen as a bridge to ensure continuity. Throughout Francis’ pontificate, Prevost served in key roles and was widely recognized for advocating dialogue between conservative and progressive factions in the Church.
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Born in Chicago, Prevost’s elevation marks a turning point for American Catholics, who have long played a significant role in the global Church but have never seen one of their own take the papal office, until now.
His first public remarks as pope are expected in the coming days, where he is likely to outline priorities for a Church facing challenges such as declining attendance in the West, a shifting geopolitical landscape, and calls for greater transparency and reform.
Thousands of faithful gathered under cloudy Vatican skies erupted into applause as white smoke earlier billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, the centuries old signal that a new pope had been chosen.
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