Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV: First North American Elected Leader of the Catholic Church

Robert Prevost has made history as Pope Leo XIV, the first North American pontiff. Explore his journey from Chicago to the Vatican and what this means for the future of the Catholic Church.

Historic Moment: Robert Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV, the First North American Pontiff

May 9, 2025 | By [Your News Publication]

In a groundbreaking moment for the Catholic Church, Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old cardinal from Chicago, has been elected Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first-ever North American to lead the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

The announcement came just an hour after white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the College of Cardinals had reached the two-thirds majority needed to elect a new pope. The moment was sealed with the traditional Latin proclamation: “Habemus Papam”.

A Pope for the Americas

Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a new era in Vatican history. Long considered unlikely due to the United States’ global political dominance, the elevation of an American-born cardinal to the papacy was both unexpected and symbolic.

Though born in Chicago to a family of Spanish and Franco-Italian descent, Pope Leo’s pastoral and missionary work in Peru for over three decades has shaped his vision and identity. As one Vatican insider noted, “He is one of the least ‘American’ American cardinals.”

His extensive time in Latin America helped forge deep ties with the region’s clergy and laity. Many believe it was this cross-continental appeal that secured the support of Latin American cardinals, following the path of his predecessor, Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope.

Continuity with Pope Francis

Pope Leo XIV is seen as a reformer in the mold of Pope Francis, sharing his dedication to inclusivity, social justice, and ecclesiastical reform. In 2023, while serving as head of the Vatican’s powerful Dicastery for Bishops, he emphasized openness, stating: “Our work is to enlarge the tent and to let everyone know they are welcome inside the Church.”

He also played a pivotal role in one of Francis’s key reforms: introducing women into the bishop-nomination process—a landmark move toward gender inclusion in Church decision-making.

Low Profile, High Impact

Though he rarely gave interviews or appeared in the media, Pope Leo XIV quietly built a reputation as a wise, humble leader with a strong sense of mission. From 2014 to 2023, he led the Diocese of Chiclayo in Peru before being called to Rome. His leadership there impressed Vatican officials and helped him ascend the ranks.

Despite his relative youth among potential candidates, the cardinals opted for a long-term leader with deep pastoral experience and a global perspective.

Global Reactions and Future Outlook

The appointment was met with warm support from political and religious leaders alike. U.S. President Donald Trump posted, “I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!” Meanwhile, Christine Allen, director of the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development, praised the new pope’s global outlook, saying: “He brings with him the vital perspective of the Global South.”

Experts suggest Pope Leo XIV will continue focusing on issues that defined Francis’s pontificate: climate change, economic inequality, migration, and Church transparency. According to Jesuit priest Thomas Reese, “He is not just an American. He is a pope for all of the Americas.”

As the 267th pope, Leo XIV now faces the monumental task of leading a global Church through turbulent political, social, and environmental times. His inclusive spirit and Latin American connection may prove vital as he seeks to unite a diverse and evolving faith community.