Historic Election: An American Becomes Pope Leo XIV

With the election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the Catholic Church faces pivotal choices concerning its future path and inclusiveness in the wake of tradition-breaking leadership.

In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Robert Prevost has been elected the first American pope, taking on the name Leo XIV. The announcement came yesterday as he addressed an enthusiastic crowd at St. Peter’s Square, stating, “Peace be with you.”

This election marks a significant departure from Vatican traditions, with many surprised by the decision. According to Jason Horowitz, the Rome bureau chief, the selection of an American pope was long deemed unimaginable, but the recent shift in global attitudes is reshaping conventions within the church.

The conclave of cardinals, which lasted just over 24 hours, concluded with Prevost’s selection amidst pressing challenges. As Pope, he will need to navigate the direction of the Church, deciding whether to uphold the agenda of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who emphasized inclusivity and adaptability, or to carve out a different path entirely.

Pope Leo XIV, 69, hails from Chicago and has dedicated significant portions of his life serving outside his home country, spending 20 years in Peru as a missionary, parish priest, teacher, and bishop. He previously held a key position in the Vatican, overseeing the selection and management of bishops globally after being appointed cardinal by Pope Francis just two years prior.

While he shares Francis’ commitment to helping the marginalized, questions remain about his stance on LGBTQ+ issues and whether he will embrace similar openness as his predecessor.

Upcoming events for the new Pope include a Mass at the Sistine Chapel with the cardinals who elected him, a prayer at St. Peter’s Basilica on Sunday, and a meeting with journalists at the Vatican on Monday.