Robert Francis Prevost is the new Pope: he will be called Leo XIV

Rome, 8 May 2025 - The Catholic Church has a new pontiff: Robert Francis Prevost has been elected Pope and has chosen the name Leo XIV. He is the 267th Pope in history and the first American to ascend to the throne of Peter, an event that marks a historic turning point in the panorama of global Christianity.Born in Chicago in 1955, with Italian, French and Spanish origins, Prevost was a missionary in Peru and later archbishop of his hometown.

A man of great pastoral and cultural experience, he was able to win the confidence of the conclave, which elected him on the fourth ballot, after a morning still marked by black smoke. At 18:08 the white smoke announced the election of the new pontiff to the world. Immediately there was an ovation in St. Peter's Square: over 150,000 faithful greeted the news with tears, prayers and spontaneous dancing, while the bells rang out in celebration.

At 7:13 p.m., the Cardinal Protodeacon pronounced the long-awaited Habemus Papam from the central Loggia of the Vatican Basilica. "Peace be with you all," were his first words to the world, in a greeting that paid homage to his predecessor Francis, evoking his simple and inclusive style. "Let us build bridges of peace," added Leo XIV, immediately launching a message of unity and reconciliation in times marked by global conflicts and tensions.

There were numerous reactions from the political and religious world. Among the first was that of former US President Donald Trump, who declared: 'An honour for our country. I look forward to meeting him'. The election of Leo XIV opens a new page for the Catholic Church, under the sign of internationality, peace and missionary commitment.

A pontificate that promises to be full of challenges, but also of hope.