The Roman Catholic Church has a new leader. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago-born clergyman, was elected pope on May 8, 2025. He has chosen the name Leo XIV and becomes the first pope born in the United States, as well as the first from the Augustinian order to hold the papacy.
White smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel announced the decision of the conclave, drawing cheers from about 150,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square. From the central balcony of the basilica, the newly elected pope greeted the crowd with his first public words: “Peace be with all of you.”
Leo spoke in Spanish and Italian, choosing not to address the crowd in English. He emphasized unity, urging people around the world to build bridges through conversation and shared purpose. He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, recalling his final Easter blessing with emotion and gratitude.
Born in Chicago in 1955, Leo studied with the Augustinian Fathers and earned a mathematics degree from Villanova University before pursuing theological studies at the Catholic Theological Union. He spent over 20 years in Peru as a missionary and later served as Bishop of Chiclayo. In recent years, he worked at the Vatican overseeing the appointment of bishops, a role that gave him experience with global Church leadership.
Leo holds both American and Peruvian citizenship. His time in Peru has shaped much of his pastoral and administrative outlook. In his first address, he thanked the people of Chiclayo for their support and acknowledged their place in his spiritual journey.
Public figures across the world responded swiftly. U.S. President Donald Trump offered congratulations, calling it an “honor for our country.” Former President Barack Obama and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also issued messages, with Johnson writing, “Everything dope, including the Pope, comes from Chicago.” Peru’s President Dina Boluarte praised Leo’s service and warmth toward her country.
The new pope’s messages have reflected many of the same themes championed by Francis. He has supported environmental stewardship, promoted aid for migrants, and expressed concern for the poor and marginalized. His social media posts have also revealed his past criticism of restrictive immigration policies and his encouragement of public health efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leo’s election brings renewed attention to the direction of the Church. He will face challenges including financial strain, differing views on Church teachings related to gender and family, and the role of women within Church structures. His experience selecting bishops and managing Church governance may aid him as he steps into this role.
On May 9, Leo presided over his first Mass as pope, held in the Sistine Chapel. Addressing the same cardinals who had elected him, he spoke about the challenges of modern faith and the Church’s role as a guiding light. He noted that many today view religion with skepticism and spoke about the consequences of isolation, neglect of compassion, and moral drift. His homily focused on being a steward for all, grounded in humility.
Observers have noted his choice of papal name may offer some insight into his priorities. The last Pope Leo—Leo XIII—led the Church from 1878 to 1903 and was widely known for engaging with labor and social issues. While Leo XIV has yet to outline a clear agenda, his early statements and public record point to an interest in justice, outreach, and internal reform.
Reactions have come in from around the world. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope that the Vatican would continue offering moral support during his country’s conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message referring to shared Christian values and hopes for continued dialogue. Other leaders, including from Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations, urged the new pope to promote peace and work toward easing global tensions.
At Villanova University, Leo’s alma mater, students and staff held an impromptu celebration. “We’re overjoyed,” said Rev. Peter Donohue, the university president. “When he appeared on that balcony, it was like seeing a family member step up.”
Though Leo has been described as private and reserved, those who have worked with him speak of his commitment to community and values shaped by his Augustinian roots. His time as a missionary in Peru, academic background, and leadership in Rome have given him broad insight into the diverse needs of the global Church.
As Leo XIV begins his tenure, the Church enters a period of transition shaped by both continuity and change. His background reflects a blend of North and South American influences, traditional formation, and international engagement. How he navigates the expectations of Catholics around the world remains to be seen—but for now, a new chapter has begun.
Image is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license and was created by Edgar Beltrán / The Pillar.
