Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been unveiled as the new pope, taking the name Pope Leone XIV, DAILY GAZETTE can report.
The announcement came moments after white smoke emerged from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the cardinal electors had reached a decision.
Cheers erupted from the crowd gathered in St Peter’s Square as Cardinal Jean-Pierre Ricard, the senior cardinal deacon, stepped onto the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica and proclaimed the traditional Latin formula: “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!” — “I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope!”
Pope Leone XIV, formerly the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and a key figure in Church governance under Pope Francis, becomes the first American-born pontiff in the Church’s 2,000-year history.
His election marks a watershed moment for the global Catholic community, reflecting both the growing influence of the Church in the Americas and a continuation of efforts to address modern challenges facing the faith.
Wearing white papal vestments for the first time, the 69-year-old appeared calm and solemn as he waved to the crowd and offered his inaugural blessing, the Urbi et Orbi — “To the City and the World.”
In a brief address, the new pope thanked the cardinals for their trust and invoked the memory of his predecessor, Pope Francis, whose papacy was marked by reforms, humility, and a focus on social justice.
“I take this name, Leone, in honor of Pope Leo XIII, whose voice for the working poor and the dignity of labor inspires me still,” he said.
As the 267th successor of St. Peter, Pope Leone XIV faces a Church at a crossroads, grappling with declining vocations in the West, internal divisions between traditionalists and reformers, and the ongoing aftermath of abuse scandals.
Yet, his experience as a missionary in Latin America and administrator in Rome positions him uniquely to bridge divides.
Born in Chicago in 1955, Prevost was a member of the Order of St. Augustine and served as a bishop in Peru before being called to the Vatican.
Known for his deep spirituality, administrative skill, and quiet resolve, he has long been seen as a bridge-builder.
His papal inauguration is expected to take place within the next few days, at a Mass attended by global dignitaries and thousands of the faithful.
Meanwhile, pilgrims continue to flock to Rome, many moved by the significance of this moment.
