First American Pope Elected and Will Be Known as Pope Leo XIV

Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, eyes fixed on the chimney above the Sistine Chapel. Then, at 6:07 PM local time on May 8, 2025, it happened. White smoke billowed into the Roman sky.

The message was clear: the Catholic Church has chosen its next leader. Bells rang out, crowds erupted in cheers, and across the globe, millions turned their attention to the Vatican. A new pope had been elected.

Tradition Meets Anticipation

As always, the announcement didn’t come right away. The identity of the new pontiff remained a closely guarded secret until one moment—the appearance of a cardinal at the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. In Latin, the words rang out: “Habemus Papam.” We have a pope.

That sentence signaled the beginning of a new chapter not just for the Church, but for over a billion Catholics worldwide. Before the name was revealed, speculation buzzed.

Would it be a familiar Vatican face? A surprise candidate? Someone from Europe, Latin America, Africa, or even further afield?

A Historic Conclave

The conclave that chose the new pope was the largest in Church history, with 133 cardinals casting votes over two days. Following the death of Pope Francis in April, the cardinals met under strict secrecy in the Sistine Chapel, as tradition demands.

They burned ballots after each round, and the world waited for the sign—black smoke for no decision, white smoke for a new pope. After four rounds, the answer finally came.

The World Watches

In the hours leading up to the announcement, reporters, pilgrims, and onlookers filled the square. Inside the Vatican, preparations began for the new pope’s first public blessing.

Across continents, churches rang bells, and social media buzzed with guesses.

Some expected a conservative choice to return to tradition. Others hoped for a progressive voice to continue the path of reform. Few expected what was about to come.

The Big Reveal

And then, the moment arrived. From the balcony, the new pope stepped forward, greeted by applause and awe. He smiled, raised his hand in blessing, and introduced himself to the world.

The new pope is Robert Francis Prevost. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he becomes the 267th pontiff—and the first American in history to lead the Catholic Church.

A New Chapter Begins

Pope Leo XIV was born in Chicago in 1955 and has served the Church across continents—from Peru to Rome. Known for his calm leadership and international perspective, he represents a blend of tradition and global reach.

His choice of the name “Leo” nods to Pope Leo XIII, a pontiff known for his intellect and social concern.

With his election, the Church signals a new direction, one that looks outward while holding firm to its roots. As Pope Leo XIV takes the helm, the world watches—and waits—for what comes next.