History was made in St Peter’s Square as Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, becoming the first American to assume the papacy. The 69-year-old former missionary to Peru will be known as Pope Leo XIV.

Cheers of “Viva il Papa!” erupted from the thousands gathered below the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica even before his name was announced.

In his first address, Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor.

“We still hear in our ears the weak but always courageous voice of Pope Francis who blessed us,” he said. “United and hand in hand with God, let us advance together.”

A Life of Service Across Continents

Born in Chicago in 1955 to parents of Spanish and Franco-Italian descent, Robert Prevost was ordained a priest in 1982. He joined the Augustinian Order and moved to Peru in 1985 as a missionary, eventually earning Peruvian nationality.

He served for a decade as a parish pastor and seminary teacher in Trujillo, building a reputation as a compassionate leader who worked closely with marginalized communities.

Despite his American roots, Prevost is widely considered a Latin American cardinal due to his long years of service in Peru. He returned frequently to the United States, where he also served as a pastor and prior in Chicago.

Pope Leo XIV delivering his first address

A Rapid Rise Under Pope Francis

Pope Francis appointed Prevost as Bishop of Chiclayo in 2014 and later elevated him to the influential role of Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in Latin America, which oversees the appointment and supervision of bishops. He was named archbishop in January 2023 and created cardinal just months later.

Prevost’s election comes as no surprise to Vatican observers. With over 80% of the conclave’s cardinals having been appointed by Pope Francis, many saw the choice of Prevost — a figure aligned with the outgoing pope’s progressive and inclusive approach — as a continuation of his legacy.

Known for his humility, cross-cultural experience, and deep commitment to pastoral care, Pope Leo XIV is expected to emphasize unity, social justice, and outreach to the global south. His leadership marks a new chapter for the Catholic Church at a time when its role in global affairs and relevance among youth are increasingly under scrutiny.