VATICAN CITY – The Conclave has elected Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome, the Vatican announced moments ago. Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti delivered the traditional “Habemus Papam” from the central loggia of Saint Peter’s Basilica, revealing the name the new pontiff has chosen: Leo XIV.
The announcement, met with cheers from the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square, marks the end of the latest papal election.
The former Archbishop Robert Francis Prevost, 69, becomes the second Pope from the Americas, following Pope Francis. However, unlike his predecessor, Leo XIV hails from North America, born in Chicago, Illinois. He is also the first Augustinian to lead the Catholic Church.
Born on September 14, 1955, to a father of French and Italian descent and a mother of Spanish descent, Leo XIV spent many years as a missionary in Peru and served two terms as the head of the Augustinian order. His extensive background includes studies in mathematics and philosophy, as well as a doctorate in Canon Law. He was ordained a priest in Rome in 1982.
Prior to his election as Pope, Leo XIV served as the Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru and, most recently, as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, a role that elevated him to Archbishop. He was created a Cardinal by Pope Francis in 2024.
His episcopal motto, “In Illo uno unum” (“Although we Christians are many, in the one Christ we are one”), reflects the teachings of Saint Augustine.
The world now awaits the first public address and blessing from Pope Leo XIV. This is a developing story and will be updated.
