In a moment charged with history and hope, the Catholic Church has elected its first American pontiff: Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago, who will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.
The 69-year-old, who has spent much of his career in Peru, made his first appearance as pope from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, just over an hour after white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney, sending the world a long-awaited message: Habemus Papam! (We have a pope!)
Cheers erupted from the tens of thousands gathered in the square, with flags waving, church bells ringing and emotion rippling through the international crowd as the new pontiff smiled, waved and offered a heartfelt greeting. His first words: “La pace sia con tutti voi.” (“Peace be with you.)”
Delivering his inaugural speech in Italian and Spanish, Pope Leo XIV struck a tone of unity, humility, and dialogue. “We must build bridges,” he declared, echoing the spirit of his predecessor. “Build bridges with dialogue, coming together, uniting, becoming one single people – one single people in peace.”
The election of an American pope is a stunning departure from centuries of Vatican tradition, with many believing the idea had long been off the table due to the global influence of the United States. But Leo XIV’s unique path – from Chicago to Chiclayo – positioned him as a bridge-builder between North and South, tradition and change.
His deep ties to Latin America, including years as a missionary and later as Archbishop of Chiclayo, Peru, along with his recent role as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, gave him a global pastoral perspective. He also served as president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Leo’s election comes after a dramatic and closely watched conclave. On Thursday afternoon, the 133 cardinal-electors gathered for a fourth round of voting. Just after 6pm, the unmistakable white smoke billowed into the Roman sky – the signal that consensus had been reached.
By the time the Swiss Guard and military band took their positions, the anticipation in the square was electric. Crowds, including school groups, pilgrims and reporters from around the world, packed the piazza. And when the ancient formula “Habemus Papam!” was pronounced from the loggia, followed by Leo XIV’s public appearance, the square exploded with joy.
Leo’s election drew swift global attention. Even US President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to extend congratulations, writing: “It is such an honour to realise that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honour for our Country.”
While the conclave was notably longer due to the large number of electors – 108 of whom were appointed by Pope Francis – it reflected the wide diversity of today’s global church. Cardinals came from places like Mongolia, Tonga and Sweden, a testament to Francis’ efforts to make the Church more inclusive.
Back in St Peter’s Square, the celebration continues, with some faithful expressing hope that Pope Leo XIV will carry forward Francis’ work of outreach and reform – and perhaps take it even further. As one young Argentine pilgrim, Pedro Deget, put it: “Francis opened the Church to the outside world. Let’s see what Leo can do now.”
Images: Sunrise
