Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the 267th pope of the Catholic Church, adopting the name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement came on May 9 when white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel at 6:09 p.m. Rome time, signaling his election by the College of Cardinals following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.

Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers as the basilica's bells tolled, confirming a new pontiff had been chosen. At approximately 7:25 p.m., Cardinal Dominique Mamberti announced in Latin from St. Peter’s Basilica's central balcony: “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam!” which translates to “I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope!”

Before appearing publicly, Pope Leo XIV spent time in reflection and prayer in the "Room of Tears," where new popes first don their papal vestments.

In his first address, Pope Leo XIV greeted those present with “Peace be with you all.” He spoke about peace as a “disarming, humble, and persevering peace” from God who “loves us all unconditionally.” Reflecting on his predecessor, he said, “Allow me to follow that same blessing.”

Pope Leo XIV is noted for being the first American pope. A native of Chicago and former bishop of Chiclayo in Peru until 2023, he emphasized unity and peace within the Church. He urged building bridges through dialogue and thanked Pope Francis and the cardinals for choosing him.

He expressed his desire for a united Church committed to peace and justice while remaining faithful to Jesus Christ. As an Augustinian order member, he quoted St. Augustine: “With you I am a Christian and for you I am a bishop.”

Addressing Rome's Catholic Church specifically, he called for it to be open and welcoming like St. Peter’s Square itself.

Switching briefly into Spanish, he addressed those from Chiclayo before returning to Italian to express hope for a synodal Church focused on charity and aiding those who suffer.

On Our Lady of Pompei's feast day, Pope Leo led prayers asking for her intercession before giving his first apostolic blessing "urbi et orbi" — to the city and world.