Habemus Papam: Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV as White Smoke Rises from the Sistine Chapel

Vatican City – May 9, 2025 — A new chapter in the history of the Roman Catholic Church began today as white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope. In a dramatic moment witnessed by thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square and millions around the world, Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States was elected as the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.

The official proclamation — “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a Pope!”) — was delivered from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica by Cardinal Jean-Louis Tremblay, the Senior Cardinal Deacon. The crowd erupted in cheers as the name of Cardinal Prevost was announced, marking the first time in history that an American-born cardinal has been elected to the papacy.

An Unexpected Yet Historic Choice

At 69 years old, Pope Leo XIV brings a unique background to the role. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost was a member of the Augustinian order and served for years as a missionary and bishop in Peru before being appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops by Pope Francis in 2023.

His experience in both Latin America and the Roman Curia, along with his reputation for humility, spiritual depth, and pastoral leadership, made him a respected figure among the cardinal electors. While not seen by all analysts as a frontrunner, his election represents a powerful moment of unity and global perspective within the Church.

First Words as Pope

Dressed in simple white papal robes, Pope Leo XIV stepped onto the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica and offered his first words to the faithful:

“Brothers and sisters, the world is yearning for peace, justice, and truth. Let us build bridges, not walls. Let us heal, not wound. Let us be one Church — faithful, merciful, and courageous in love.”

He then delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing — “to the city and to the world” — before retreating for private prayer.

The Conclave Behind Closed Doors

The conclave, consisting of 115 cardinal electors under the age of 80, began earlier this week following the resignation of Pope Francis, who stepped down due to age and health concerns. After several rounds of voting, the appearance of white smoke at 5:43 p.m. local time confirmed that a new pontiff had been chosen.

The decision was made under the majestic ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, beneath Michelangelo’s famed frescoes that have silently witnessed centuries of Church history.

A Global Reaction

Reactions to the election of Pope Leo XIV have poured in from leaders around the world. U.S. President, European heads of state, and religious figures from across denominations have extended congratulations and prayers for his pontificate. Social media platforms lit up with the hashtag #PopeLeoXIV, as Catholics and non-Catholics alike shared in the historic moment.

In his hometown of Chicago, church bells rang and crowds gathered in prayer and celebration. In Lima, Peru, where Prevost once served as bishop, local parishes erupted with emotion and joy.

A Papacy Begins

Pope Leo XIV inherits a Church facing many challenges — from secularism and abuse scandals to the role of women, global conflict, and climate change. But with his grounding in pastoral care and international service, many see in him a symbol of reform, stability, and hope.

The papal inauguration Mass is expected to take place in the coming days. Until then, the world watches and prays as a new shepherd begins his journey — one that promises compassion, renewal, and unity for the Catholic Church and the broader global community.