Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States has been elected as the new pope, becoming the first American to hold this role.
He will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.
Crowds cheered in St. Peter’s Square as white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, signaling that a new pope had been chosen. Pope Leo XIV appeared on the famous balcony, smiling and waving to the tens of thousands gathered below.
Pope Leo XIV is 69 years old and was born in Chicago. Before becoming pope, he worked as a missionary in Peru and later became a bishop there. He is known for caring deeply about people in remote or overlooked areas, much like Pope Francis did.
In 2023, Pope Francis made him a cardinal and gave him a major job in the Vatican called the Dicastery for Bishops. This group helps decide which priests become bishops, a very important task in the Church.
His experience as both a missionary and a Vatican leader helped build trust among other cardinals. Many see him as someone who listens well, brings people together, and keeps things balanced.
Now, as Pope Leo XIV, he will guide the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics and continue the work of his predecessor, focusing on unity, care for the poor, and thoughtful leadership.
