With the white smoke now cleared, history has been made as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago is elected as Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope in the Roman Catholic Church’s 2,000-year history. The announcement was made by French Cardinal Dominique Mamberti from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, declaring, “Habemus Papam!” to the cheers of a jubilant crowd in St. Peter’s Square.

Born in the south suburbs of Chicago and raised at St. Mary of the Assumption parish, Pope Leo’s journey to the papacy is unique. After his ordination in 1982 and earning a doctorate in canon law, he spent two decades in Peru, eventually becoming the bishop of Chiclayo. Fluent in Spanish and Italian, he is seen as a bridge pope, capable of connecting the diverse global Church while honoring both Latin and American traditions.

Pope Leo XIV’s initial words reflected humility and solidarity, emphasizing his commitment to walk with the people. Insiders describe him as a consensus candidate who can unite differing factions within the Church. His selection is seen as a shift from traditional establishment figures, with some viewing him as less entangled in Vatican politics.