First American Pope Elected: Cardinal Robert Prevost Inaugurated as Leo XIV

European Correspondent
Vatican City, May 8, 2025

In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the first American pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old made his first public appearance on Thursday evening from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica before thousands of gathered faithful.

Prevost, who served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops since 2023, was elected by 133 cardinal electors during the conclave following Pope Francis’s death. His extensive missionary work in Peru and dual American-Peruvian citizenship helped establish his global acceptability despite being the first pontiff from the United States.

In his inaugural address, Leo XIV emphasized peace, reconciliation and service to the poor: “I assume this sacred duty with a humble heart, pledging to advance Christ’s teachings and Church unity.” Many view his election as continuing the progressive legacy of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope.

The United States has 61.9 million Catholics (19% of its population), but geopolitical concerns previously prevented an American papacy. Prevost’s election shatters this barrier, heralding a new chapter in the Church’s global outlook.

Vatican sources indicate Pope Leo XIV will outline his policies in coming days as Catholic communities worldwide anticipate this new era.