American Robert Francis Prevost elected new Pope under the name Leo XIV.

Election of the New Pope

On May 8, 2025, the conclave in the Vatican elected the 267th Pope - as evidenced by the white smoke that rose over the Sistine Chapel. The new pontiff is Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the USA, who took the name Leo XIV. He is the first American in the history of the Roman Catholic Church to lead it.

The conclave lasted two days and concluded with the agreement on the candidacy of the new Pope. Leo XIV was elected after the fourth round of voting, receiving more than two-thirds of the votes that supported him from 135 cardinal electors. After his election, about 20,000 people gathered in St. Peter's Square to greet the new Pope.

The New Pontiff's First Words

Immediately after the election, Leo XIV addressed the faithful from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. 'May peace be with all of you. Brothers and sisters, here are the first words of the risen Christ, who has given life. I address all nations, to all peoples: may there be peace among you. The risen Christ brought peace for all; it comes from God, who loves us all with unconditional love. We hear the brave voice of Pope Francis, who blessed Rome and the whole world.'

In his first speech, the newly elected Pope called for building bridges of dialogue to achieve peace and thanked the cardinals for their trust. He also urged the faithful not to be afraid and to unite with God.

Who is Robert Prevost

Robert Francis Prevost was born in 1955 in Chicago (USA) to a multinational family. He is 69 years old and has become the first American Pope. Prevost is a member of the Order of St. Augustine and has an education in mathematics, philosophy, theology, and canon law.

Before being elected Pope, Prevost headed the Dicastery for Bishops in the Vatican. Vaticanists describe Leo XIV as a centrist with 'progressive' views on certain issues. The President of the USA expressed confidence in meeting the new Pope and thanked him for his election.

The conclave that led to the election of the new Pope was marked by the unexpected choice of Robert Prevost for this high position, surpassing the expectations of many.