Rome, May 8, 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 landscape 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 managed to gain the trust of the conclave, which elected him on the fourth ballot, after a still uncertain morning marked by black smoke. At 18:08, the white smoke announced to the world the election of the new pontiff. Immediately an ovation in St. Peter's Square: over 150,000 faithful welcomed the news with tears, prayers, and spontaneous dances, while the bells rang in celebration.
At 19:13, the cardinal protodeacon pronounced the 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 sending a message of unity and reconciliation in times marked by global conflicts and tensions.
Numerous reactions came from the political and religious world. Among the first was that of former United States President Donald Trump, who stated: “An honor for our country. I look forward to meeting him.” The election of Leo XIV opens a new chapter 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 hopes.
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