By Sushant Agarwal
Published on | May 09, 2025
White smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel—Robert Prevost is elected as Pope Leo XIV, the 267th leader of the Catholic Church.
Born in Chicago, Leo XIV is the first American pope. The crowd cheered, “Viva il Papa!” as he stepped onto the Vatican balcony.
A former missionary in Peru, Leo XIV is known for bridge-building, humility, and deep ties to both the U.S. and Latin America.
Born in 1955, Leo studied math and theology, earned a doctorate in canon law, and was ordained in 1982. He served in Peru for decades.
Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo in 2014. By 2023, he was made cardinal and head of the Dicastery for Bishops.
“We have to be a church that builds bridges… welcoming,” Leo said, honoring Pope Francis and blessing the world in three languages.
Leo spent over 30 years serving communities in Peru, earning citizenship and working with the poor, students, and clergy.
He supports social justice, action on climate change, and a diverse, inclusive Church. He’s backed blessings for same-sex couples.
He chose Leo after Popes known for strength and social justice. Leo XIII, for example, championed workers' rights and Church reform.
With roots in three cultures and decades of service, Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy with humility, vision, and a call for unity.