Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States has been chosen as the next pope, becoming the first American to lead the Catholic Church. The 69-year-old from Chicago will take the name Pope Leo XIV.
A jubilant crowd in St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers as white smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the successful election.
Shortly after, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, delivering his first remarks. He called for global peace and offered a heartfelt tribute to the late Pope Francis.
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Cardinal Prevost brings a wealth of international experience to the papacy. Having spent a significant portion of his career as a missionary in South America and serving as a bishop in Peru, he possesses a deep understanding of the global Church.
Most recently, he held a prominent position leading a key Vatican office responsible for bishop appointments. Sources indicate that Pope Leo XIV is expected to continue the reform efforts initiated by his predecessor.
The election process involved 133 voting cardinals, with a two-thirds majority required to select the new pontiff. The announcement of Cardinal Prevost’s election marks a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church.
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