Vatican City – In a historic turn of events, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American, was elected as the new Pope on Thursday, May 8, 2025, taking the name Leo XIV. This marks the first time an American has held the position of leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
The selection was made by the 133 cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel for the papal conclave following the death of Pope Francis.Born in Chicago, Illinois, Prevost spent many years as a missionary in Peru and even holds Peruvian citizenship.
This extensive experience in Latin America, where nearly 40% of the world’s Catholics reside, is seen as a significant factor in his election, positioning him as a more universal candidate.Prevost’s career within the Church includes serving two terms as the head of the Augustinian religious order.
In 2023, Pope Francis appointed him to lead the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful office responsible for overseeing the selection of new bishops worldwide. In this role, he implemented a landmark reform allowing women to vote on which candidates are recommended to the Pope. He was elevated to Cardinal in 2023.
While he maintained a relatively low public profile, Prevost is known to be aligned with Pope Francis’ vision, particularly regarding outreach to the poor and migrants, and environmental concerns.
In his first address as Pope Leo XIV, he emphasized a message of peace and a call for the church to be a “missionary church, a church that builds bridges, establishes dialogues…always open to receive.” His election comes at a time of global instability, with conflicts and divisions posing significant challenges to his leadership.
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