Robert Francis Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV, the First American to Lead the Catholic Church

In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the new pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on the morning of May 8, 2025, after months of declining health. Pope Leo XIV becomes the first American in history to hold the papacy.

The announcement was made by Cardinal Dominique Mamberti from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica shortly after the papal conclave concluded in Vatican City.

“Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said in an official statement. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”

He added, “His whole life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church. He taught us to live the Gospel with courage, compassion, and love—especially toward the poor and those on the margins.”

Pope Francis, who made history himself as the first Latin American pope, led the Church from 2013 until his death. He had battled serious health issues in recent months, beginning with bronchitis in February, followed by double pneumonia. He was briefly hospitalized for 38 days and later suffered a cerebral stroke, which led to a coma and, ultimately, irreversible heart failure.

Before his passing, Pope Francis made one final public appearance on Easter Sunday from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, addressing the faithful in a brief message of hope.

His body lay in state at St. Peter’s Basilica from April 23–25, with thousands of mourners paying their respects. His funeral was held in St. Peter’s Square on April 26, and he was laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.

The papal election process began shortly after. As tradition dictates, cardinals under the age of 80 gathered in the Sistine Chapel for a secret conclave, held 10–15 days after the pope’s passing. Voting rounds continued until a candidate received a two-thirds majority. The signal came in the form of white smoke rising from the chapel’s chimney, announcing to the world that a new pope had been chosen.

Standing on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on May 8, Pope Leo XIV offered his first blessing to the crowds below. His election marks a new chapter in the Church’s history and opens the door for greater representation from the Americas.