Robert Prevost Becomes First American Pope, Takes Name Leo XIV (Video)

In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the 267th pope, becoming the first American to ascend to the papacy.

The 69-year-old appeared before the world on Thursday from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.

Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers as white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, confirming the successful conclusion of the conclave. Shortly afterward, Pope Leo XIV emerged to deliver his first public address and the traditional Urbi et Orbi (“To the City and the World”) blessing.

“Peace be with all you,” the new pontiff said in his first words as pope, addressing the faithful from the central balcony.

In a touching tribute, Pope Leo XIV honored his predecessor, Pope Francis, stating that he wished to deliver his blessing in the same spirit shown by the late pontiff during his final appearance in the square.

The new pope emphasized unity and dialogue, speaking of “building bridges with dialogue” during his address. He began in Italian and later switched to Spanish, reflecting on his many years as a missionary and later as Archbishop of Chiclayo, Peru.

Pope Leo XIV now assumes immediate responsibility for leading the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church at a time of both great challenge and opportunity.