On May 8th, 2025, history was made in Vatican City when Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago, Illinois, was elected Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American pope in the Catholic Church’s 2000-year history. As the traditional white smoke from the Sistine Chapel signaled that the conclave had come to a decision, cheers and acclaims blossomed from St. Peter’s Square as a cardinal appeared on the grand balcony to declare, “Habemus Papam,” meaning, “We have a Pope.”

Before entering the papacy, he served as a Peruvian missionary and bishop. Most recently, he led the Dicastery for bishops in Rome. At age 69, he brings vast pastoral experience and the attribute of international leadership to his grand role.

The name Leo XIV honors the late Pope Leo XIII, which indicates a possible focus on unity and social justice. Once he stepped on the grand balcony, he greeted the crowd with “Peace be with you.” During his inaugural address, he declared his commitment to kindness and compassion, paying tribute to Pope Francis, and emphasizing inclusion and public outreach. 

As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, many Catholics, especially those in the U.S., look forward to his newfound leadership and impact on Catholicism.