Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago has become the first American pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV and becoming the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, which serves 1.4 billion followers worldwide.
At 69, he made his first public appearance as pope from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday evening, greeting a jubilant crowd with the words, “Peace be with you all.” In his speech, delivered in Italian, Pope Leo honored his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, urging Catholics to remember his legacy of unity.
He then laid out his vision for the Church, emphasizing its role as a “missionary church” committed to building bridges and fostering dialogue rooted in love and compassion.
Leo was chosen swiftly—just two days into the conclave of 133 cardinals—suggesting he made a strong impression during the confidential deliberations. His selection follows a pattern; both Francis and Benedict XVI were also chosen on the second day, while John Paul II was elected on the third day back in 1978.
Celebrations erupted across the global Catholic community, especially in the U.S., where roughly 20% of adults identify as Catholic.
Pope Leo inherits a Church shaped significantly by Francis, who shifted focus away from divisive social debates to champion the needs of the poor, refugees, and marginalized communities.
Yet Leo also faces persistent internal challenges, including unresolved issues related to the Church’s long-standing sexual abuse crisis.
Although he expressed admiration for Francis, Leo’s choice to wear traditional papal robes during his first appearance suggests a potential return to some older customs as he defines his own leadership path.
