Pope Leo XIV
Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American cardinal, was elected as the new pope on Thursday, becoming the first pontiff from the United States. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he addressed the public from St. Peter’s Basilica, calling for peace and remembrance for the suffering. He now leads the world’s 1.4 billion Roman Catholics, succeeding Pope Francis, who passed away last month at age 88.
Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV spent much of his career abroad, particularly in Peru where he served as a bishop and became a naturalized citizen. He was a member of the Order of St. Augustine and previously led the Vatican office responsible for appointing bishops globally—one of the most powerful roles in the Church prior to becoming pope.
He is known for his humble approach to leadership and commitment to the poor and migrants, mirroring Pope Francis’ values. In past interviews, he has criticized bishops who act like royalty rather than servants. Fluent in Spanish and Italian, he has worked as a missionary, educator, and leader of his order, building strong ties with clergy across continents.
While his style is quieter and more reserved than his predecessor’s, Pope Leo XIV is expected to continue Pope Francis’ push for a more inclusive and consultative Church. He has supported lay participation in Church governance, though it remains to be seen how he will address contentious social issues.
In the past, he voiced concern over Western media’s portrayal of LGBTQ+ lifestyles, and his 2012 comments suggested skepticism toward same-sex unions. Since then, he has remained largely silent on the topic, prompting uncertainty about how progressive he will be on such matters as LGBTQ+ inclusion and family diversity.
As an American pope, he also stands in contrast to the increasingly vocal conservative Catholic movement in the U.S. He has criticized nationalist and Christian power ideologies, particularly those supported during the Trump administration, and his social media once included posts critical of anti-immigration policies.
His election followed a conclave that began on May 7. Only cardinals under the age of 80—currently 135, the highest number in history—are eligible to vote. Around 80 percent of them were appointed by Pope Francis, giving reformists an edge in shaping the future of the Church.
Conclaves vary in length, but Pope Leo XIV’s selection came quickly, making him the fifth pope since 1900 to be elected in just two days. Historically, some conclaves have taken years, but modern votes often move faster. White smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney signaled the decision to the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
Key challenges now facing the Church include deep divisions over social issues such as LGBTQ+ inclusion, the role of women, priestly celibacy, and how to handle abuse scandals. Under Francis, the Church made strides in addressing these, but debates continue over whether Leo XIV will uphold or shift from that trajectory.
The election of Leo XIV reflects both continuity and potential change. While his past shows alignment with Francis’ pastoral mission, the Church and its new leader face enormous pressure to navigate ideological divides and uphold moral authority in an increasingly secular and polarized world.
