Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been chosen as the 267th Pope, taking the papal name Leo XIV.
He succeeds Pope Francis, who died recently.
In a moment of great joy and historic significance, white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney this evening, signaling to the world that the College of Cardinals has elected a new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
The announcement was formally delivered by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing thunderous applause from thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
“I announce to you a great joy; we have a Pope: The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord, Lord Robert Francis Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church Prevost, who has taken the name Leo XIV,” declared Mamberti.
The election followed intense deliberations by 133 cardinal electors convened in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel.
The decision marks a new chapter for the global Catholic community, which numbers over 1.3 billion faithful.
Cardinal Prevost, 69, was born in Chicago, USA, and served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops prior to his election.
A member of the Order of St. Augustine, he is known for his pastoral sensitivity, commitment to ecclesiastical reform, and extensive missionary work in Latin America.
As Pope Leo XIV, he inherits a Church navigating complex global challenges—from secularization and internal reform to humanitarian crises and interfaith dialogue.
His choice of the name “Leo” evokes the legacy of past popes who championed doctrinal clarity and global outreach, including Pope Leo XIII, a renowned voice on social justice and labor rights.
Pope Leo XIV appeared shortly at the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica to offer his first Urbi et Orbi blessing—“to the city and to the world.”