Pope Leo XIV appears at the window of St Peter’s Basilica following his announcement as the new pontiff
The Catholic Church has elected a new pope. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States has been chosen as the 267th pope in the Church’s history.
He becomes the first pope from the United States and will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.
Born in Chicago in 1955, Pope Leo XIV is 69 years old. In 2015, Pope Francis appointed him as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, and on 30 September 2023, he was made a Cardinal and assigned to the titular church of Saint Monica.
“I was born in America, but both my parents were immigrants—one from France, the other from Spain. I was raised in a Catholic home deeply rooted in faith,” Pope Leo XIV said in his first message.
Pope Leo was born to Louis Marius Prevost and Mildred Martinez. He has two brothers: Louis Martin and John Joseph.
The conclave of 133 cardinals met at St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. Black smoke appeared twice, signaling no decision had yet been made. However, on the evening of Thursday 8 May 2025, white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, confirming that a new pope had been elected.
Shortly after, Pope Leo XIV appeared at the window of the Basilica and addressed the faithful gathered in St Peter’s Square. He began his speech with a message of peace:
“Peace be with you all. Together, we can walk forward toward the promised land that God has prepared for us.”
“Let us walk together to build a Church rooted in dialogue and understanding, opening our arms to all who are in need—standing with them and showing love.”
Pope Leo XIV is seen to share similar views with the late Pope Francis, particularly on issues concerning migrants, the poor, and the environment. His early messages indicate a commitment to continuity in these areas.
Catholic leaders in Uganda have welcomed his election, saying it brings renewed hope and strength to the Church’s mission.
“We wish him a fruitful ministry and God’s grace in this new responsibility,” they said.