INTERNATIONAL – The College of Cardinals has elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new Pope, a historic milestone marked by the selection of the first American pontiff.
Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, the Chicago-born Augustinian friar brings joy and renewed hope to over a billion faithful worldwide.
Pope Leo XIV, 69, who heads the influential Vatican Dicastery for Bishops, has spent most of his life outside the United States. His experience and global perspective are expected to shape the Church’s direction.
Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced the election, and Pope Leo XIV will face pressing issues such as ongoing wars, migration, persecution of Christians, and global realignment.
Additionally, he will address Church reforms, including synodality, priest formation, accountability mechanisms, and women’s leadership.
The U.S. Secretary of State congratulated Pope Leo XIV, looking forward to deepening the relationship between the U.S. and the Holy See.
The Methodist Church also welcomed Pope Leo XIV’s election, offering prayers for his papacy and expressing hope for increased collaboration between the Methodist and Catholic communities.
Christine Allen, Director and Chief Executive of the Catholic Agency For Overseas Development (CAFOD), praised Pope Leo XIV’s experience in Peru, highlighting his vital perspective from the Global South.
She emphasized the need for a strong moral voice on issues like the debt crisis and climate change.
As the 267th successor to St. Peter, Pope Leo XIV will play a pivotal role in shaping the Church’s future.
His first major public event will be delivering the Angelus on May 11 from the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace.