VATICAN CITY, In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, American Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected the 267th pope, becoming the first American to assume the papacy in the Church’s two-millennia-long history. The 69-year-old, who previously served as the head of the Vatican’s powerful office of bishops, will be known as Pope Leo XIV.

“Habemus Papam!”: Historic Election Announced

Cheers erupted across St. Peter’s Square as white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel — a traditional sign that a new pope has been elected. The announcement was made with the traditional Latin phrase, “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”), followed by the revealing of Cardinal Prevost’s papal name.

Emotional Scenes at the Vatican

The atmosphere was electric and emotional. Nuns wept, priests made the sign of the cross, and pilgrims from around the world waved flags and cried out “Viva il papa!” in celebration. Pope Leo XIV is expected to give his first public blessing from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica shortly after his appearance.

Before stepping onto the balcony, the new pope traditionally dons his white papal vestments in the “Room of Tears,” so named for the emotional weight of the moment and the tremendous responsibility now resting on his shoulders.

Who Is Pope Leo XIV?

Born in the United States, Cardinal Robert Prevost has long served in Peru as a missionary and later headed the Vatican’s Congregation for Bishops. His election represents a historic shift in the global Church, with an American now at its helm for the first time.

A New Era Begins

With the passing of Pope Francis, the Church now looks to Pope Leo XIV for leadership in a time of great global change and spiritual challenge. His mission begins immediately, as he takes the reins of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.

More updates to follow as Pope Leo XIV addresses the faithful and outlines his vision for the Church.