Pope Robert Francis Prevost elected, adopts name Leo XIV
Fresh Take:
In the heart of Rome, a moment that will echo in history books unfolds. The new pope, a distinctive figure swathed in tradition, makes his balcony debut. Cardinal Prevost transforms into Leo XIV, shedding tears of joy, hidden beneath his mantle. He's the first American to wear the papal crown, a field missionary with a heart of gold. His inaugural address shouts for harmony.
A Quick Pick in 25 Hours
It's 6:08 PM, and white smoke blankets the Sistine Chapel's roof. A symphony of jubilation fills St. Peter's Square, a blend of elation and exhilaration. A pope has been chosen, and his followers embrace him before even knowing his face. Some braved the scorching sun for hours, prioritizing their roles as witness to history. Church bells toll, broadcasting the news globally, and particularly to the 1.4 billion Catholics. A sea of spectators gathers in Rome, eagerly searching for the best view. The election of this 267th pope took just 25 hours and four cardinal votes.
Witness the event in the video above
If stories could speak, this one would be a sermon. Cardinal Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, stepped into the pontifical spotlight. Born in Chicago and aged 69, he ventured onto the world stage, becoming the first US-born pope in the Catholic Church's two-thousand-year history. His ordination was officially announced after the appearance of white smoke from the Sistine Chapel's chimney, signifying the cardinals' unanimous vote[1][3].
Pope Leo XIV is a centrist who champions progressive ideals, standing up for marginalized individuals much like his predecessor, Pope Francis. However, he preserves traditional church beliefs, such as opposing the ordination of women as deacons[1]. As a former missionary in Peru, he served as the Archbishop of Chiclayo and heads the Vatican’s powerful office of bishops[2].
Upon his coronation, he adopted the papal name Leo XIV, presumably honoring Pope Leo XIII for his balanced approach between doctrine and intellectualism, although Pope Leo XIV's reasoning was not immediately explained[3]. In his first public address, he echoed, "Peace be with you." He spoke in both Italian and Spanish, reminiscing his Peruvian missionary years. He declared himself an Augustinian priest, a devout Christian, and a bishop striving for unity among all people[3].
The election of Pope Leo XIV sparks a tidal wave of awe, making headlines worldwide[1].
- The Pope, now identified as Leo XIV, was born in Chicago, marking him as the first US-born Pope in the Catholic Church's two-thousand-year history.
- In contrast to traditional customs, Pope Leo XIV, a centrist championing progressive ideals, advocates for the marginalized, similar to his predecessor, Pope Francis.
- Amidst the fanfare and politics surrounding policy-and-legislation and general-news, Pope Leo XIV's first address on his balcony echoed a call for harmony.
- As the world watched, Pope Leo XIV, adorned in the papal crown, cheerfully expressed his hopes for peace in both French and Spanish, a nod to his Peruvian missionary years.
