Vatican City: Cardinal Robert Prevost has made history by becoming the first American to be elected as the pope. The conclave of 133 cardinals, gathered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, reached a two-thirds majority, selecting Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th pope, who will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the announcement of the new pope was met with a traditional declaration from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. A senior cardinal deacon proclaimed in Latin to the waiting crowd below, ‘Nuntio vobis gaudium magnum: habemus papam,’ meaning ‘I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope.’ This was followed by the ringing of bells at St. Peter’s Basilica and cheers from the assembled crowd as white smoke signified the successful election.
Cardinal Prevost, originally from Chicago, has chosen the name Leo XIV for his papacy. His election came during the third round of conclave voting. The name Leo XIV is a notable choice, with historical precedence in papal naming conventions. Certain names like John, Gregory, and Benedict have been popular among previous popes, while the name Peter is traditionally avoided to honor Saint Peter, the first pope.
Prevost, 69, has spent much of his career in Peru as a missionary and was appointed as a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023. Known for his quiet demeanor and support of Francis’ papacy, particularly concerning social justice issues, Prevost has been a figure of interest among his peers. His previous role as a bishop in Chiclayo, Peru, and later as head of a Vatican office responsible for appointing bishops worldwide, has given him significant influence within the Church.
In a statement made during a 2023 Vatican press conference, Prevost emphasized the Church’s mission of inclusivity, saying, ‘Our work is to enlarge the tent and to let everyone know they are welcome inside the Church.’ His election as pope marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church, with expectations of continuity in addressing social justice and inclusivity.
