The new Pope has been elected, an American with ties to Peru

On the second day of the conclave, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago was elected as the 267th pope. This is a historic moment as for the first time in the history of the Roman Catholic Church the majority of the 133 cardinals voted for an American pope. 

Prevost took the name of Leo XIV in honor of Pope Leo Xlll who was known to be an advocate for workers’ rights as well as peace and justice. The qualified new leader of the Catholic world, Pope Leo XIV is 69 years old. He was born in Chicago but spent several years as an Augustinian missionary in Peru. He became a cardinal in 2023.

With tears of joy and non-stop cheering, on Tuesday at around 6:07 p.m. in Roman time, thousands of people celebrated the announcement of the new Pope in St. Peter’s Square, as the white smoke came out of the chimney from the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel.

At around 7:22 p.m. the new pontiff, Pope Leo XIV walked out the balcony while people of all ages cheered and many more held their phones up. 

His first words in Italian were “Peace be with you all.” as the crowd of tens of thousands of people shouted, "Viva il papa (Long live the pope)" and Pope Leo's eyes seemed to tear up.

At times, the celebration resembled the opening of the World Cup with flags from all over the world waving at once. Young people crying and others jumping and screaming of joy. 

Due to his progressive ideas, people hope Pope Leo XlV can be as beloved as Pope Francis was. 

During his first speech he told the world "We want to be a synodal church, a church that journeys, a church that seeks peace always, that always seeks charity, that wants to be close to people, especially those who are suffering."

People Leo XIV will be representing about 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.

Reactions to the selection 

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said this is the best thing that has happened to Chicago and it’s more exciting to know that the Pope is a fan of the Cubs and loves pizza. However, Johnson also appreciated that the pope recognizes the value of immigration, which is another example of how this new leader pays attention to current events and issues. 

President Donald Trump also congratulated the new pope, stating it is an honor to realize he is the first American Pope.

“What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!” said Trump in a message posted on social media.