Robert Prevost, a Chicago-born missionary who dedicated his life to service in Peru, has made history by becoming the first pope from the United States, taking the name Leo XIV. The announcement of his election came on May 8, 2025, when Prevost, aged 69 and a member of the Augustinian religious order, spoke to the world from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, emphasizing a message of peace, dialogue, and missionary evangelization. Wearing the traditional red cape of the papacy, Prevost's attire was noted as a contrast to his predecessor Pope Francis, who had chosen to forgo such traditions.
Prevost had been considered a leading candidate for the papacy, notwithstanding a long-standing taboo against electing a U.S. pope due to the country's geopolitical influence. However, his eligibility was bolstered by his Peruvian citizenship and years of missionary work and service in Peru, where he served as archbishop. His election marked a significant event, as the conclave was the most geographically diverse in history, and cheers erupted from tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square upon the confirmation of his selection.
The crowd celebrated as white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope. The senior cardinal deacon announced, "Habemus Papam!" revealing Prevost as the choice of the 133 Cardinal electors. In addressing the crowd, Prevost used both Italian and Spanish, expressing gratitude to his diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, emphasizing his connection to the faithful there. The choice of the name Leo was particularly noted by Vatican observers, as it harkened back to the legacy of Leo XIII, who championed social justice and reform during his papacy from 1878 to 1903.
Pope Leo XIV’s roots in the Augustinian Order, a community dedicated to service and evangelization, suggests a continuation of some of Pope Francis's priorities, especially regarding social justice issues. Prevost, who graduated from Augustinian Villanova University, was involved in leadership roles within the order and had been the prior general before his return to Peru and eventual elevation to the Vatican's hierarchy as head of the office responsible for vetting bishop nominations globally.
Vatican watchers are keen to see how Prevost will navigate papal diligence against the backdrop of contemporary challenges. His election as pope delighted many, especially American students present in St. Peter’s Square for the historic moment. Among them, Alessandra Jarrett, a political science student, expressed her excitement about witnessing the election of the first American pope.
Before his papacy, Prevost played a vital role in significant reforms initiated by Pope Francis, including the addition of female members to the voting bloc responsible for bishop nominations. This reform in early 2025 demonstrated his alignment with progressive changes being pursued within the Church. His elevation to cardinal rank highlights the esteem held for him by his peers within the Vatican.
In Peru, bells tolled in celebration following the announcement of his election. Many Peruvians expressed pride in having a pope who represents their country. Isabel Panez, an elementary school teacher, voiced the hope for a papal visit to Peru, further illustrating the emotional connection Prevost has fostered with his home nation. This historic election not only redefines the papacy but also resonates deeply with Catholics around the world, particularly in the Americas.
