New Pope Leo XIV Takes the Helm
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States has been elected as the 267th Bishop of Rome. He is the first American and the first Augustinian to become pope. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he follows Pope Francis as the second pontiff from the Americas.
Standing before a jubilant crowd at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV greeted everyone with his first words: “Peace be with all of you!” Moments earlier, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced the election from the central balcony of Saint Peter’s Basilica, proclaiming the traditional Latin phrase, “Habemus Papam!”
The election took place with 133 voting cardinals. It required a two-thirds majority to choose the new pope. White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel on the afternoon of May 8, 2025, signaling the historic decision.
Continuing a Vision of Unity and Faith
Pope Leo XIV is expected to carry on many priorities of Pope Francis. These include pastoral care, curial reform, and promoting global inclusion. In his first message, the pope emphasized unity, peace, and faith, speaking to more than 2.1 billion Catholics worldwide.
He honored his predecessor by recalling Pope Francis’ final Easter blessing. “God loves us. God loves everyone. Evil will not prevail,” he said. He urged the Church to move forward without fear, united in faith and love.
The new pope called on the Church to be a bridge among people. “Help us build bridges through dialogue and meeting, so we can live as one peaceful people,” he appealed. He envisioned a fearless Church dedicated to spreading the Gospel and missionary work.
Augustinian Roots and a Missionary Heart
As a proud member of the Augustinian order, Pope Leo XIV reflected on St. Augustine’s words: “With you I am Christian, and for you, a bishop.” He sees the Church as a home where all can walk together toward God’s prepared homeland.
He encouraged the Church to embrace synodality—working together with compassion and peace. “We must always seek peace, charity, and closeness to those who suffer,” he emphasized.
Global Background and Leadership
Born in Chicago on September 14, 1955, Pope Leo XIV comes from a family with French, Italian, and Spanish roots. He joined the Order of Saint Augustine and took his first vows in 1978. After studying theology in Rome, he was ordained priest in 1982 and earned a doctorate in Canon Law.
His ministry included over ten years in Peru, where he worked in parish care, seminary education, and diocesan leadership. In 1999, he was elected Provincial Prior of the Augustinian Province of Chicago and later served as Prior General of the worldwide Augustinian Order.
He carried the episcopal motto “In Illo uno unum” (“In the One, One”), symbolizing unity in Christ. In 2015, he became Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, until 2023. Pope Francis then appointed him Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in the Vatican, placing him at the heart of episcopal appointments and church reform.
In 2024, he was elevated to cardinal and played a key role in the Synod on Synodality and papal journeys, proving his commitment to global engagement and reform.
With this election, the Catholic Church welcomes a leader who blends deep faith, reformist vision, and international experience. Pope Leo XIV’s call for unity and peace resonates strongly with millions of believers worldwide.