Robert Prevost Makes History as First American Pope, Becomes Leo XIV

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has made history as the first American elected pope. The 69-year-old Chicago native is now Pope Leo XIV, leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

He appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica Thursday evening and greeted a cheering crowd with the words, “Peace be with you all.”

In his first address, Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, and called for a renewed spirit of missionary outreach. He urged the Church to become one that "builds bridges and dialogue." Speaking in Italian and then Spanish, he emphasized charity and love in both words and action. He also greeted the people of Peru, where he once served as a bishop and missionary.

Elected after just two days of conclave deliberations by 133 cardinal electors, Pope Leo’s selection signals continuity with the reforms of Pope Francis.

Before his election, Prevost led the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops and served as president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He also spent nearly a decade as bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, and held dual citizenship.

A member of the Augustinian order, he previously served over ten years as the order’s prior general, overseeing its global mission.

Despite past concerns about a U.S. pope due to America’s global political influence, Prevost’s long international service likely eased those fears.

Known for his calm and collaborative leadership, Pope Leo XIV brings a global vision shaped by decades of pastoral work.

His election comes at the start of the Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year a time of pilgrimage and celebration. But he also faces serious challenges, including divisions within the Church, global instability, and the ongoing clerical sexual abuse crisis.

Pope Leo has acknowledged progress on abuse but admits there is “still much to learn.” His diplomatic and mission-focused leadership may help heal wounds and guide the Church through the complex years ahead.