Robert Francis Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV, Becomes First American Pontiff

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected on Thursday as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, becoming the spiritual leader of 1.4 billion Catholics around the world. Elected by 133 cardinals in a solemn conclave, he has taken the name Pope Leo XIV, marking a new chapter in the Church’s history.

Prevost, 69, is the first American to ascend to the papacy. Born in Chicago, he spent over two decades in Peru, where he became a bishop and a naturalized citizen. His ministry there rooted in service to the poor and vulnerable shaped his pastoral style and global perspective.

A member of the Order of St. Augustine, Pope Leo XIV is known for his humility, theological depth, and commitment to missionary work. Before his election, he led the Augustinian order internationally and most recently served as Prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, one of the most influential offices in the Roman Curia, responsible for the selection of bishops around the world.

His pastoral philosophy echoes that of his predecessor, Pope Francis. In a 2024 interview with Vatican News, Prevost remarked, “The bishop is not supposed to be a little prince sitting in his kingdom,” underscoring his vision of Church leadership rooted in service rather than status.

Ordained in 1982 at the age of 27, he holds a doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. Fluent in Spanish and Italian, Pope Leo XIV has ministered across cultures and continents, bringing with him a global vision and deep pastoral sensitivity.

The choice of the name Leo XIV pays homage to Pope Leo XIII, known for his groundbreaking work on social justice and the rights of workers. Analysts suggest that Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate may reflect similar themes justice, dialogue, and engagement with the modern world.

As white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel and bells rang across Rome, the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to witness history. When Pope Leo XIV stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he greeted the world with humility and hope.

“I stand before you as a servant,” he said. “Let us walk together as a Church that listens, serves, and brings the peace of Christ to all people.”