In a historic and emotional moment at the Vatican, American-born cleric Robert Francis Prevost has been elected the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, adopting the name Pope Leo XIV.
Naijareporter reports that he is the first ever pontiff from the United States and was chosen by the College of Cardinals during their conclave on Thursday.
Prevost, a moderate voice in the Church and close associate of the late Pope Francis, previously served as a missionary in Peru. His election marks a pivotal moment for the Church’s global representation and direction.
As white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel — the traditional signal that a new pope had been chosen — the bells of St Peter’s Basilica pealed joyously, echoing across Rome. Soon after, the new pontiff stepped onto the central balcony of the basilica, smiling warmly, bowing, and raising both hands to greet the sea of faithful gathered in St Peter’s Square.
“Peace be with you,” he declared simply but powerfully, as the crowd erupted into cheers.
A Joyful Crowd Welcomes the New Leader
The announcement sparked spontaneous celebrations in the square, with flags from around the world being waved and people chanting “Viva Il Papa!” (“Long live the Pope!”). One priest hoisted a crucifix high into the air while another jubilantly waved a Brazilian flag atop someone’s shoulders.
Bruna Hodara, a Brazilian pilgrim, echoed the official Latin proclamation — “Habemus Papam!” — as she captured the moment on her phone. Nearby, 15-year-old Florian Fried from Munich, Germany, shared his excitement:
“It’s something I’ll never forget. Being here when history is made — it’s special.”
The news drew global attention, including remarks from political figures. Former U.S. President Donald Trump called the pope’s election a “great honour” for the United States.
Following in the Footsteps of Francis
Pope Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away last month at the age of 88 after a transformative 12-year pontificate focused on compassion, climate, and reform. Though celebrated by many, Francis also stirred debate with his progressive policies, which sometimes met resistance from traditional quarters within the Church.
The new pope inherits a Church at a crossroads — facing internal divisions, lingering abuse scandals, and a world fraught with war, nationalism, and secular drift. Many observers see Prevost’s election as an attempt to balance continuity with a fresh chapter.
Secretive Conclave Delivers Swift Verdict
The conclave that chose Pope Leo XIV was the largest and most internationally diverse in Church history, with 133 cardinals from five continents participating. Bound by strict secrecy, the cardinals sent black smoke on Wednesday evening and again on Thursday at noon, signalling inconclusive votes.
However, just after 6:00 pm local time on Thursday, white smoke signalled that consensus had been reached. While the exact number of ballots remains confidential, it mirrored recent precedent by concluding within two days.
Prevost then followed tradition by retreating to the “Room of Tears,” a private space where new popes collect themselves and don papal robes for the first time. He later returned to the Sistine Chapel to receive the cardinals’ pledges of obedience.
Finally, with red curtains drawn back and trumpets sounding, he emerged on the balcony as Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re announced:
“Habemus Papam… Leo Decimus Quartus!”
He then delivered his first Urbi et Orbi blessing — to the city and to the world.
A Global Church at a Turning Point
Prevost’s election comes at a turbulent time for both the Catholic Church and international politics. The new pontiff will need to steer the Church through cultural shifts, declining numbers in the West, and ongoing crises that challenge its moral authority.
Inside the Vatican, debates continue over the future direction of doctrine, discipline, and diplomacy. The conclave’s choice reflected a desire for a leader capable of uniting differing factions and speaking boldly on global issues.
With more than 80 percent of the cardinal electors appointed by Francis, expectations were high that the next pope would carry forward a compassionate and reformist agenda. Still, the outcome was never guaranteed, and the choice of a U.S. native — albeit one shaped by Latin American mission work — represents a significant shift.
Looking Ahead
Pope Leo XIV’s formal inauguration is expected to take place within a week, in a grand outdoor Mass attended by world leaders and religious dignitaries. Traditionally, the new pontiff also rides through St Peter’s Square in the popemobile, offering blessings and setting the tone for his papacy.
As the world watches, the 67-year-old spiritual leader now faces the monumental task of guiding 1.4 billion Catholics through a new era — with hope, humility, and a mission deeply rooted in both tradition and renewal.