A moment of enormous significance occurred in Rome today as white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, indicating that the Catholic Church had elected a new Pope. The announcement came on the evening of May 8, just one day after the conclave of 133 cardinals began its solemn deliberations. The election comes after the recent death of Pope Francis, who led the Church through a decade of transformation and regeneration.
Inside the Vatican, cardinals from 71 countries, many of whom Pope Francis personally appointed, met in solemn silence to choose the next spiritual leader for the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics. As millions glanced up and saw the white smoke, joy and passion spread over St. Peter’s Square. Not long later, the Church announced the election from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, using the traditional proclamation: “Habemus Papam” — We have a Pope.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected as the 267th pontiff and will soon be known as Pope Leo XIV. At the age of 69, Francis becomes the first American pope. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he contributes a distinct blend of pastoral experience and global vision. Pope Leo XIV spent a decade as a missionary in Trujillo, Peru, before becoming bishop of Chiclayo, where he commanded the diocese from 2014 to 2023.
Prior to his election, he supervised a major Vatican institution in charge of bishop appointments, which was critical during Pope Francis’ reform campaign. His successor is anticipated to pursue the same vision of reform and inclusivity. Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy, known for his diplomatic skills, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, known for his humility and rapport with the faithful, were earlier considered front-runners. This transfer marks not just a new chapter for the Church, but also a revitalized sense of hope for millions of people—hope based on faith, compassion, and solidarity.
