Cardinal Robert Prevost becomes the first American pope, choosing the name Leo XIV
Written by oasis96.3 on May 8, 2025
(NPR) — Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected pope, the first time an American will lead the Roman Catholic Church. He chose the name Pope Leo XIV.
The 69-year-old new pontiff appeared at the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and said “Peace be with all of you!”
He said he wanted his message of peace to “enter your hearts, reach your families and all people, wherever they are.”
He thanked his fellow cardinals for selecting him, and spoke in Italian, Spanish and Latin. Having spent years working in Peru, he thanked his former diocese in the South American country, “where a loyal people has shared its faith and has given a lot,” he said.
He also spoke warmly of the late Pope Francis and concluded by leading the crowd in prayer.
He appeared after white smoke streamed from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, signaling the 133 cardinals inside had elected a new pope.
