In a historic and emotion-filled moment for Catholics around the globe, the Vatican announced the election of a new pope on Thursday evening. White smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel shortly after 6:00 PM Central European Summer Time (CEST), signaling the successful conclusion of the conclave and the beginning of a new chapter for the Roman Catholic Church.
The sight of the white smoke sent waves of excitement through the thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square. The crowd, made up of faithful pilgrims, clergy, and tourists, erupted in cheers, applause, and chants as they watched the smoke curl skyward—an age-old signal that a new spiritual leader had been chosen.
About an hour later, the Church revealed the identity of its new shepherd. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, serving as the “proto-deacon” of the College of Cardinals, appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. He delivered the traditional Latin phrase, “Habemus Papam,” which translates to “We have a pope,” before introducing Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the newly elected pontiff. Prevost, who hails from Chicago, Illinois, has chosen the papal name Leo XIV.
Cardinal Prevost, 69, was elevated to the College of Cardinals by the late Pope Francis in 2023 and has held significant roles within the Vatican, including as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops—a key department in the Roman Curia. His election as pope marks a significant moment in Church history, not only because he is the first American-born pope, but also because he follows the deeply impactful and reform-driven pontificate of Pope Francis.
Leo XIV was elected on the evening of the second day of the conclave, following two inconclusive rounds of voting earlier in the day. Those votes were marked by the appearance of black smoke, which signaled no consensus had yet been reached. According to Vatican protocol, a successful election requires a two-thirds majority vote from the College of Cardinals. In this conclave, that meant Cardinal Prevost needed at least 89 votes from the 133 cardinal-electors present.
The swift conclusion of the conclave—achieved within just two days—is indicative of a strong consensus among the cardinals. Analysts suggest that Prevost’s extensive experience in pastoral leadership and governance within the Church likely made him an appealing choice for both reform-minded and traditionalist members of the conclave.
Although Cardinal Prevost was not among the widely speculated frontrunners heading into the conclave, his election is being interpreted by Vatican observers as a choice of continuity and balance. Many believe he will seek to build upon the legacy of Pope Francis, particularly in areas such as social justice, curial reform, and global engagement.
Speaking to the crowd from the iconic basilica balcony, Pope Leo XIV offered his first public words as pontiff in a tone marked by humility and solemnity. “I thank my brother cardinals for their confidence and the people of God for their prayers. I embrace this responsibility with deep reverence, and I ask you all to walk with me, as we seek unity, peace, and compassion in our troubled world,” he said, briefly addressing the faithful in Italian before concluding with a prayer and blessing.
As bells rang throughout Vatican City and churches across Rome, celebrations began in Catholic communities around the world, particularly in the United States, where the news of an American pope sparked jubilant reactions. In his home city of Chicago, parishioners gathered for spontaneous prayer services, lighting candles and singing hymns in celebration of the milestone.
President of the United States, in a statement from the White House, congratulated Pope Leo XIV, calling his election “a moment of great pride for Americans and Catholics worldwide.” The statement continued: “We offer our heartfelt prayers for Pope Leo XIV as he begins this sacred mission of guiding the Church with wisdom, strength, and compassion.”
Vatican insiders say Leo XIV is expected to continue the pastoral outreach emphasized by Pope Francis, while also addressing pressing issues such as declining church attendance in the West, the ongoing sexual abuse crisis, and the need for further transparency in Church governance.
“His leadership in the Dicastery for Bishops showed his commitment to accountability and spiritual renewal,” noted Rev. Paolo Marchesi, a Vatican commentator. “As pope, he now has the global stage and the weight of the Church’s hopes upon him.”
Despite the heavy responsibilities that lie ahead, many believe Pope Leo XIV’s calm demeanor, deep theological insight, and extensive leadership background uniquely equip him for the role. His previous missionary work in Latin America and fluency in both Spanish and Italian are expected to serve him well as he embraces the role of a global pastor.
The new pope is expected to celebrate his inauguration Mass in the coming days, a ceremony that will draw world leaders, dignitaries, and religious representatives from across the globe.
As the sun set over St. Peter’s Square, the mood remained jubilant. Pilgrims from every continent held banners reading “Viva il Papa!” while choirs sang hymns that echoed through the Vatican City.
With Pope Leo XIV at the helm, the Catholic Church embarks on a new era—one rooted in continuity, guided by faith, and faced with the ongoing challenge of remaining a vital spiritual force in the 21st century.
