Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV – The First American Pope

The 2025 papal conclave in the Catholic Church concluded with the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago, who was chosen as the new pope under the name Pope Leo XIV. The election process took place from May 7 to 8 in the Sistine Chapel, and after four rounds of voting, white smoke rose to announce the selection of the new pope.

Pope Leo XIV is noted as the first American pope in the history of the Catholic Church. The 69-year-old Prevost served as a missionary in Peru for many years and was appointed by Pope Francis in 2023 as the head of the Vatican's Dicastery for Bishops. He also holds Peruvian citizenship.

In his first speech, the new pope delivered a message of unity and peace, stating, "I wish you all peace!" Pope Leo XIV is expected to emphasize concern for migrants and the poor. However, he is anticipated to take a more conservative stance on issues such as the ordination of women and the role of LGBTQ+ individuals in the Church.

The election of Pope Leo XIV was met with enthusiasm in the United States and Latin America. The U.S. President expressed in a social media statement that it was "a great honor for our country." Additionally, the Empire State Building in New York was illuminated in gold and white to honor Pope Leo XIV.

Under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV, the Catholic Church is expected to emphasize messages of peace and dialogue in the coming period.