A Historic First: America’s Own Becomes Pope Leo XIV

The Vatican made history on May 8, 2025, with the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States as the 267th Pope, succeeding the late Pope Francis. Adopting the name Pope Leo XIV, he is the first American-born pontiff in the Catholic Church’s two-millennia history—a moment that resonated deeply with believers across the globe. The announcement was made via the Vatican's official channels with the age-old declaration: Habemus Papam! signaling the end of the papal conclave.

The white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney at 6:15 p.m. Rome time, sparking cheers in St. Peter’s Square as the decision of the 133 cardinal electors was revealed.

Moments later, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, waving to a jubilant crowd of thousands gathered to witness the beginning of a new era.

Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, the new pope has a distinguished background in theology, education, and missionary work, particularly with the Augustinian order.

His theological training in Chicago and Rome, combined with decades of service including time in Peru, shaped a leader poised to guide the Catholic Church into the future.