Robert Francis Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV
VATICAN CITY – In a historic moment witnessed by thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square and millions more watching around the globe, Robert Francis Prevost was unveiled as the new pope of the Catholic Church on Thursday, May 8. The newly elected pontiff, now known as Pope Leo XIV, emerged onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, offering a wave of blessing to the jubilant crowd below.
The announcement followed days of intense deliberation within the Vatican, as the College of Cardinals convened in a papal conclave to select a successor to the papacy. The conclave, shrouded in secrecy and tradition, commenced on May 7, with cardinals from across the world sequestered within the Vatican walls. After multiple rounds of voting, the cardinals reached a consensus, electing Prevost to lead the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.
White smoke, a traditional signal indicating a successful election, billowed from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel earlier in the day, confirming the anticipation and sparking immediate celebrations throughout the Vatican and beyond. The faithful erupted in cheers, waving flags and banners, as they awaited the official announcement of the new pope’s identity.
Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old native of Chicago, Illinois, brings a wealth of experience and a diverse background to the papacy. His selection marks a significant moment for the Catholic Church, as he becomes the first pope from the United States.
Prevost’s journey to the papacy began in Chicago, where he received his early education and developed a deep connection to the Catholic faith. He attended Villanova University, a prominent Catholic institution, before pursuing theological studies at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Driven by a desire for deeper understanding of canon law, the legal system governing the Catholic Church, Prevost traveled to Rome, where he earned a doctorate from the prestigious Pontifical College of St. Thomas Aquinas.
His academic achievements laid the foundation for a distinguished career in the Church. He served in various roles, including as a missionary in Peru.
Details surrounding Prevost’s vision for the Church and his priorities as pope are expected to emerge in the coming days and weeks. His choice of the papal name Leo XIV carries historical significance, evoking the legacy of previous popes who have borne the name Leo. The most recent was Leo XIII.
The election of Pope Leo XIV comes at a time of both challenge and opportunity for the Catholic Church. The Church faces scrutiny on various fronts, including issues of transparency, accountability, and its response to global crises. The new pope will be tasked with addressing these challenges while also guiding the Church in its mission of evangelization and service to humanity.
The global reaction to Prevost’s election has been one of widespread interest and anticipation. Catholics and non-Catholics alike are eager to learn more about the new pope’s background, his theological perspectives, and his plans for the future of the Church.
The inauguration of Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to take place in the coming days, with dignitaries and religious leaders from around the world expected to attend. The ceremony will mark the formal beginning of his pontificate and will provide an opportunity for him to articulate his vision for the Church.
For live updates and coverage of the papal transition, viewers can watch the introduction of Pope Leo XIV via USA TODAY’s livestream. Greta Cross, a national trending reporter at USA TODAY, is providing ongoing coverage of this developing story. Readers can reach her at [email protected] with story ideas or information. The world now turns its attention to Pope Leo XIV, eager to witness the direction he will steer the Catholic Church in the years to come.
