New leader in the Vatican: Leo XIV elected as pope
On Thursday, white smoke emerged from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. The new pope is Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from North America. He is 69 years old and has taken the name Leo XIV.
On Thursday, shortly after 12 PM Eastern Time, white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, and the bells rang throughout the Vatican. A record number of 133 cardinals from 71 countries made the selection during the fourth conclave vote.
On the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti from France announced the traditional "Habemus papam!" formula.
Who is the new pope Leo XIV?
Robert Prevost, born in Chicago, is an Augustinian and a doctor of canon law. Since 2023, he has served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and the President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. His career includes many years in Peru, where he held various roles such as prefect at the religious seminary in Trujillo. From 2001 to 2013, he was the Prior General of the Augustinians. He received his episcopal consecration in 2014.
On January 30, 2023, Pope Francis appointed him as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, while simultaneously elevating him to the rank of archbishop. Then, on July 9, Pope Francis elevated Robert Prevost to the dignity of cardinal deacon, and on February 6, 2025, to cardinal bishop.
Since October 2023, Cardinal Prevost has been a member of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State and several dicasteries, including those for Evangelization, the Doctrine of the Faith, Eastern Churches, Clergy, Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, Culture and Education, and Pontifical Texts. He is seen as someone Pope Francis could endorse, continuing his work.
