Cardinal Robert Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV, has been officially elected as the first US-born pontiff.
As white smoke billowed from the chimney in the Sistine Chapel signalling the end of the conclave, thousands of onlookers gathered in front of St. Peter’s Basilica to celebrate the new pope.
While many considered Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost to be a leading candidate during the conclave, as a dual American-Peruvian citizen, the outcome wasn’t exactly expected.
In his first address as Pope, he spoke in Italian and Spanish calling “Peace be with you all” as onlookers erupted in cheers. He continued by praising his predecessor, Pope Francis, with words of remembrance: “We still keep in our ears that weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis blessing Rome.”
“The pope who blessed Rome gave his blessing to the world, to the whole world that morning on Easter Sunday. Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God loves us. God loves you all and evil will not prevail.”
So who exactly is Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome? Below, a brief explainer on the first US-born pontiff to emerge from the conclave as Pope.
Who is Pope Leo XIV?
Pope Leo XIV, 69, was born Robert Francis Prevost in 1955 in Chicago, Illinois. A member of the Order of Saint Augustine, his path to the papacy has been anything but conventional. After entering religious life, he spent over a decade in Peru, where he served as a missionary and eventually as the bishop of Chiclayo. His deep ties to Latin America and fluency in both Spanish and English made him a prominent figure in cross-cultural ministry.
A Rising Star in Vatican Leadership
In 2023, Prevost was appointed archbishop by Pope Francis, as well as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Latin America – a powerful role within the Vatican that oversees the appointment of bishops across the globe. It was a major vote of confidence and placed him at the epicentre of Church governance. His administrative skill, global experience, and reputation for humility made him a popular choice among cardinals seeking continuity with Pope Francis’s pastoral style.
Aside from being the first American to hold the papal office, Pope Leo XIV is also the first Augustinian to be elected pope. His international background and religious order set him apart from many of his predecessors and suggest a broader, more globalised vision for the future of Catholicism.
Why Did He Choose The Name Leo XIV?
Upon his election, Prevost chose the name Pope Leo XIV, likely in homage to Pope Leo XIII, who was known for embracing modern ideas and advocating for a push towards modernity when it came to the role of science and politics in the church in the late 19th century. It’s a name that signals an intention to build on Pope Francis’s legacy of social justice, inclusion, and dialogue – which are values that continue to shape the Church in the 21st century.
What Are His Views?
Reactions to Pope Leo XIV’s appointment have been largely positive, with many Catholics welcoming his calm leadership style and progressive outlook. His election also represents a symbolic shift towards a Church increasingly attuned to its global congregation and no longer centred solely on Europe.
His views are thought to be aligned with his predecessor’s in respect to migrants, poverty and particularly – the environment.
Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation, said of the appointment: “Pope Francis was a fundamental leader on climate change. His actions and teachings had a very positive impact on our ability to negotiate the Paris Agreement in 2015. But the 10 years since the launch of Laudato Si have also been the hottest 10 years on record.”
Adding: “I hope Pope Leo XIV will be the inspirational leader for the peace and solidarity we need in these troubled times, and expand the Catholic Church’s efforts to address the climate crisis, energising followers, governments, and leaders around the world to unite and protect life in our wonderful Planet.”
As he begins his tenure, millions will be watching closely to see how he balances tradition with reform—and whether the American-born pope can usher in a new era of unity for the Catholic Church.
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