Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States has been elected as the next pope, making history as the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV.
White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel Thursday afternoon, signaling that the College of Cardinals had successfully chosen a new pontiff on the second day of voting. The 69-year-old Chicago-born cleric appeared shortly after on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, where he addressed a jubilant crowd, calling for peace and paying tribute to his predecessor, the late Pope Francis.
Prevost brings a wealth of international experience to the role. A former missionary in South America, he served as bishop in Peru and most recently headed the Vatican’s office responsible for appointing bishops around the world. Many within the Church expect him to continue the progressive reforms of Pope Francis.
To be elected, Prevost secured a two-thirds majority from among 133 voting cardinals. His selection marks a turning point in Church history, not only due to his nationality but also because of his choice of name.
By taking the name Leo XIV, he ties with Clement as the fourth most popular papal name. The last pope to bear the name was Leo XIII, who led the Church from 1878 to 1903 and is known for his influential writings on social justice during the Industrial Revolution. Some observers suggest Leo XIV’s decision to revive the name may signal similar priorities of social concern and moral leadership.
The first Pope Leo, “Leo the Great,” famously persuaded Attila the Hun to spare Rome in the 5th century a legacy of courage and diplomacy that now symbolically passes to Pope Leo XIV. His new name, derived from the Latin word for “lion,” evokes strength, leadership, and boldness.
In his first remarks, Leo XIV said the Church can still hear “the weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis,” acknowledging the enduring impact of the man he succeeds.
Leo XIV is expected to officially begin his papal duties in the coming days as the Church transitions into a new chapter under his leadership.
