As of May 8th, the next Pope of the Catholic Church has been selected. The new Pope was formerly known as cardinal Robert Prevost, but it now called Pope Leo XIV. He is currently 69 years old and is the first American Pope the church has ever seen. Following Pope Francis’s death on April 23, 133 out of the over 200 cardinals—the highest-ranking clergy—gathered to vote on a new pope in the conclave that takes place in Rome, Italy.
Pope Leo was born in Chicago on September 14th, 1955, to parents of Spanish and Franco-Italian descent. He has two brothers, Louis Martin and John Joseph. Though he lived outside the US, his time in Chicago was spent in a small neighborhood on the south side of the city. He also attended a catholic school and church. As a child Leo served as an altar boy then in 1982, and he became ordained. While he moved to Peru three years later, he returned to the US to then serve as a priest and prior in his home city. His father, Lewis Prevost, was a superintendent in Cook County, while his mother, Mildred Prevost, was a librarian at a local library. She was also involved in parish life where she served as the president of St. Mary Alter and Rosary Society. As for his time outside of the US in Peru and South America, Pope Leo devoted himself to missionary work, engaging closely with local communities and embracing their culture. His experiences there greatly influenced his pastoral outlook and deepened his commitment to global service.
Before Pope Leo XIV was announced as the new Pope, white smoke came out of the chimney of the chapel in which the conclave took place which signaled the decision was made. The process of choosing a new Pope is called a conclave. This is a special meeting where cardinals from all over the world gather to vote. They do this in the Sistine Chapel in Rome, where the votes are kept completely secret and burned is no decision was made. Because the cardinals vote four times a day, and there are so many options, it can take multiple days before someone gets enough support to become Pope. And if no Pope was chosen that day, black smoke would exit the chimney to signal that same fact. Pope Leo XIV was chosen because of his long years of service, strong leadership in the church, and his deep connection to people in both the US and South America. Many cardinals believed he could bring people together and continue Pope Franis’s mission of peace and compassion. His background and experience made him a strong candidate for leading the Catholic Church into the future.
When Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he greeted around 150,000 Catholics in the plaza below. In his initiation speech, Leo talked about unity, kindness, and helping others, especially those who are poor or suffering. From his speech one of the most powerful statements he made was, “Let us not build walls, but bridges- bridges of hope, healing, and love.” In his speech, Pope Leo also shared his opinions on key, highly discussed topics within the church. He vocalized that supports peace for all, helping immigrants and refugees, and protecting the environment. Along with that he believes the church should care for all people, no matter their background or where they come from. He hopes to guide the church in a way that brings more fairness, understanding, and love to the world.
Pope Leo XIV has already made history as the first American Pope and leader with a strong connection to people around the world. From his early life in Chicago to his years serving in Peru, he has shown dedication, faith, and leadership. Chosen during a time of transition, he brings a clear vision for the future of the church. His message of unity, compassion, and service has already made a strong impact, as many people are hopeful about what his leadership will bring.
