Habemus Papam: Leo XIV – the first American pope in history

On Thursday evening, May 8, 2025, at 7:06 p.m. Rome time, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, heralding the election of a new pope. Pilgrims and tourists gathered in St. Peter's Square erupted in joy, chanting "Habemus Papam!"

After a short wait, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced to the world the words:

-Habemus Papam! Eminentissimum ac Reverendissimum Dominum, Dominum Robertum Franciscum, Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Cardinalem Prevost, qui sibi nomen imposuit Leonem Quartum Decimum.

The new Pope, Leo XIV , appeared on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, giving the first "Urbi et Orbi" blessing.

Robert Francis Prevost was born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago , to a family of French, Italian, and Spanish descent. He entered the Order of Saint Augustine, where he was ordained a priest in 1982. He spent much of his ministry in Peru, where he ran a seminary and engaged in missionary activity. In 2023, he was appointed Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, playing a key role in episcopal appointments around the world.

The choice of the name Leo XIV refers to the papal tradition, recalling the figure of Leo XIII, known for his social commitment and openness to dialogue with modernity . The new pope, like his predecessor, emphasizes inclusiveness, care for the poor, and intercultural dialogue. His experience in Latin America and his work in the Roman Curia make him a figure who combines different traditions and perspectives in the Church.

In his first speech, Pope Leo XIV said:

- Brothers and sisters, peace be with you. Evil will not triumph. We are all in God's hands, all united together."

These words could be a harbinger of a pontificate based on humility, service, and unity in diversity. The world eagerly awaits the next steps of the new pope and the direction in which he will lead the Catholic Church in the coming years.

The election of the new pope took place on the fourth ballot, which is in line with the tradition of quick decisions in recent conclaves. This process, although shrouded in secrecy, attracts the attention of the whole world. The white smoke, which is a signal of the election, is produced by burning the ballots together with special chemicals, such as potassium chloride, lactose and pine resin, which provide the characteristic white color of the smoke.