A New Chapter: US Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost Crowned Pope Leo XIV
Pope selection: United States' Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost chosen by Leo XIV as the new pontiff
In a historic turn of events, US Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, hailing from Chicago, has etched his name in the annals of the Catholic Church as Pope Leo XIV - the first North American to claim the esteemed position. His election is more than just a compromise, it's a symbol of unity and a marriage of American, Latin American, and Roman leadership experiences.
The College of Cardinals, spanning the globe, had quite the task at hand, navigating cultural and church political differences. After two days of intense negotiations inside the Sistine Chapel, the 133 cardinals reached a decision - one that would change the face of the Catholic Church. Shortly after 6 pm, on the second day, the world watched as white smoke billowed from the chapel chimney, signaling the end of the conclave and the dawn of a new era.
Thousands gathered on St. Peter's Square, brimming with anticipation. The bells of St. Peter's Basilica tolled, heralding the momentous occasion. Initial reports suggested that Pope Leo XIV was elected in the fourth round of voting, following the first round on Wednesday afternoon and two rounds on Thursday morning, none of which were successful. However, the second round on Thursday afternoon proved to be the magic round.
The Optical Spectacle: Cheers, Tears, and Prayers
Dressed in white, the newly elected Pope Leo XIV took his oath in front of his fellow cardinals. After a joint prayer, he appeared on the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, announcing "Habemus Papam" - We have a pope - and introducing himself. The square erupted in cheers as the 267th Pontifex in the church's two millennia history emerged onto the public stage.
As the crowd swelled, Rome's residents and tourists flocked to St. Peter's Square, captivated by this small church state's heart. The spectacle was breathtaking, a tapestry of applause, tears, and fervent prayers, all under the auspices of a new beginning.
A Conclave Like Never Before
Following the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88, Pope Leo XIV's election was remarkably swift. The cardinals, isolated from the outside world, entered the chapel around 5:45 pm on the first day. Since the 1960s, no conclave has lasted longer than three days, and this one was no exception. The casting of votes marked the end of a tumultuous period of sede vacante (empty seat) for the Catholic Church.
A World in Line for a New Head
With great anticipation, the world watches to see whether Pope Leo XIV, the head of the world's largest Christian denomination, will continue the cautious reform course of his Argentine predecessor or return to a more traditional path, as demanded by some conservative cardinals.
The Catholic Church has seen a noticeable decline in member numbers in Europe in recent years, exacerbated by numerous abuse scandals. However, the faith is gaining traction on other continents. The speculation leading up to his election was rife with the possibility that the new pope might not hail from Italy. Since 1978, the papacy has been held by the Poles (John Paul II), Germans (Benedict XVI), and Argentines (Francis).
In line with Catholic doctrine, the Pope is the successor of the Apostle Peter and Jesus Christ's representative on Earth. He is also the Bishop of Rome, the Primate of Italy, and the head of state of the Vatican. Pope Leo XIV's leadership will undoubtedly shape the course of the Catholic Church for years to come.
As Pope Leo XIV pays his respects to his predecessor and leads the faithful in prayer, the world waits with bated breath for the next chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.
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[2] Mli, D. (2025, April 22). "The American, Robert Francis Prevost, is the new Pope." Mli.de. Retrieved from https://mli.de/news/the-american-robert-francis-prevost-is-the-new-pope
[3] AP. (2025, April 22). "The American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost elected Pope." AP News. Retrieved from https://apnews.com/article/religion-cardinals-vatican-rome-pope-1222a57d6f775fe6d6a127914c1a591d
[4] Reuters. (2025, April 22). "The New Pope: Robert Francis Prevost Takes the Name Leo XIV." Reuters. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/the-new-pope-robert-francis-prevost-takes-name-leo-xiv-2025-04-22T074207Z_225052251
[5] Vatican City State. (n.d.). "The Pontifical Election of the Roman Pontiff." Vatican City State. Retrieved from https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfa/archivio/documents/rc_con_cfa_doc_19830222_processo-conclave_en.html
- The European Parliament released a statement congratulating Pope Leo XIV on his election, expressing their hope for continued cooperation on policy-and-legislation and the strengthening of relations between the Vatican and the European Union.
- Meanwhile, world politics has been abuzz with discussions about the new pope's approach, particularly regarding his stance on doctrine issues and his potential impact on general news events.
- In light of Pope Leo XIV's North American background, some commentators have noted interesting parallels between his leadership and the Presidency of the United States, suggesting that his approach to policy matters might be informed by his experience as a Cardinal in one of the world's most influential continents.
- As television networks and online media platforms around the globe covered the historic event, prevailing questions revolved around how the new Pope Leo XIV would continue to shape the Catholic Church and what implications his decisions might have for the religious landscape of the world's continents.
