What started as an ordinary Thursday turned into a moment that rocked both the religious and political spheres: for the first time in history, an American has been elected Pope.
Robert Prevost, a 69-year-old cardinal born in Chicago, emerged onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet a cheering crowd after being chosen as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
His new name?
Pope Leo XIV.
His first message to the world was clear and gentle: “Peace be with you,” he said, calling for open dialogue, unity, and love without fear.
Leaders React Around the Globe
The news quickly made waves across political capitals.
U.S. President Donald Trump, posting on his Truth Social platform, called it “a great honor for our country” and said he looked forward to meeting the new pope.
Across the pond, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called it “a deeply profound moment of joy” for Catholics worldwide, while French President Emmanuel Macron wished for “a pontificate of peace and hope.”
Leaders from Spain, Germany, Italy, Poland, Austria, Hungary, Colombia, Ecuador, Argentina, and Ireland also shared messages of support, unity, and encouragement for the new pontiff.
Many emphasized the role of the Catholic Church in promoting peace, justice, and human dignity in a challenging global environment.
Ukraine, Russia, and Calls for Dialogue
The election also drew attention from leaders involved in ongoing global conflicts.
Russian President Vladimir Putin voiced hope for continued dialogue between the Vatican and the Kremlin, while Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed deep appreciation for the Holy See’s support and urged Pope Leo XIV to continue advocating for peace and justice.
Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill took the moment to call on the Pope to use his voice for the people of Gaza, urging him to speak out against violence and suffering.
An American Pope with Latin American Roots
Though born in the U.S., Pope Leo XIV is anything but a typical American figure.
Known affectionately as “Father Bob,” he spent much of his life in Peru as a missionary and later as an archbishop.
He holds dual Peruvian and American citizenship and is often described as “the least American of the Americans” considered for the role.
He speaks fluent Spanish and Italian and has built strong connections with Latin American clergy, which likely played a role in his widespread support during the conclave.
Quiet Reformer with a Global Appeal
Pope Leo XIV is expected to continue in the footsteps of Pope Francis, especially in his quiet but firm approach to reform within the Church.
He has kept a low profile on controversial issues like same-sex unions and women in clergy, but his past statements hint at traditional leanings—he once critiqued gender ideology while serving in Peru.
As head of the Augustinian seminary in Trujillo and later as a key figure in bishop appointments under Pope Francis, he gained respect as a level-headed leader who listens more than he speaks.
From Chicago to the Vatican
His journey began in Chicago, where he started training to be a priest at 18.
After earning a mathematics degree at Villanova University, he moved to Peru in 1985.
His path led him to become bishop in Chiclayo and later the head of the Augustinian Province of Chicago.
His decades of service, largely outside the U.S., may explain why he was able to break the long-held tradition that avoided choosing an American pope—partly due to concerns about U.S. geopolitical influence.
What Comes Next for Pope Leo XIV?
Now that the world has a new pope, all eyes will be on what he does in the first weeks of his papacy.
Can he balance his American roots with his Latin American soul?
Will he usher in a new era of reform, or stick closely to tradition? And how will he navigate global tensions—from Ukraine to the Middle East?
One thing is clear: Pope Leo XIV steps into this role at a time when the world is in desperate need of calm voices, moral guidance, and bridge-building leadership.
The road ahead won’t be easy, but if his first message is anything to go by—”Peace be with you”—it’s a hopeful start.