Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost – the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. Picture credit Vatican News Facebook
By TNS NEWS TEAM
Vatican City — In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement was made following the traditional white smoke from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the conclusion of the papal conclave.
A Historic Election
Cardinal Prevost, 69, is the first American-born pope in the Church’s history. Born in Chicago in 1955 to immigrant parents, he has had a distinguished career within the Church, particularly in Latin America. He served as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru from 2015 to 2023 and held significant roles in the Vatican, including Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He was elevated to the cardinalate in 2023 by Pope Francis .
First Address: A Call for Peace and Unity
In his inaugural address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV greeted the faithful with “peace be with you all” and paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis. Speaking in Italian and Spanish, he emphasized themes of peace, charity, and unity, declaring, “God loves us, God loves you all and evil will not prevail.” He called for a synodal Church focused on compassion and closeness to those who suffer .
First Mass with Cardinals
Today, May 9, Pope Leo XIV presided over Holy Mass with the Cardinals in the Sistine Chapel. This event symbolized the continuity of the Church’s traditions and marked the beginning of his papacy.
A New Era Begins
Pope Leo XIV’s background and experiences will shape his approach to the challenges and opportunities facing the global Catholic community. His initial statements emphasize a commitment to dialogue and unity within the Church. The faithful around the world eagerly anticipate his vision for the future of the Church, as his appointment marks the beginning of a new era filled with hope and the promise of continued spiritual guidance.
- TNS NEWS