Pope Leo XIV – New Pope 2025

The 2025 conclave opened on 6 May 2025 with 133 cardinal electors gathering beneath Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. After an inconclusive first day that produced black smoke — signifying no decision — on 7 May, anticipation surged in St Peter’s Square.

On the afternoon of 8 May the fourth ballot succeeded: at 18:07 CEST white smoke billowed from the chapel chimney and the bells of St Peter’s rang. Crowds erupted in prayer and song as the Swiss Guard and Italian Carabinieri formed an honour corridor.

Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, protodeacon of the College of Cardinals, stepped onto the balcony to proclaim the Latin formula Habemus Papam, announcing Chicago‑born Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. Moments later, Leo XIV offered his first apostolic blessing and greeted the faithful in six languages.

Leo XIV is the first pope from the United States and the first to choose the name “Leo” in 120 years, underscoring continuity with Leo XIII and his legacy of social teaching.

Church historians noted the relatively swift election — four rounds over two days — highlighting Prevost’s extensive pastoral experience and his reputation as a bridge‑builder across continents.

World leaders and Christian patriarchs quickly welcomed the new pontiff, calling his election a moment of hope amid global challenges.

Growing up in Chicago (1955‑1977) – Raised in a bilingual household at St Mary of the Assumption parish, young Robert excelled in mathematics and altar‑served daily Mass. At Villanova University he discovered the writings of St Augustine, prompting him to join the Order’s novitiate immediately after graduation.

Formation & Doctoral Studies (1977‑1985) – Amid graduate theology in Chicago, he earned a Doctorate in Canon Law in Rome, focusing on communal leadership in Augustinian life. His thesis later guided reforms on collegial governance within the Order.

Mission in Peru (1985‑1998) – Sent to the drought‑stricken prelature of Chulucanas, Fr Prevost repaired rural chapels on horseback, learned Quechua phrases for catechesis, and set up clean‑water initiatives. In Trujillo he founded an Augustinian formation program and taught canon law, simultaneously serving as diocesan judicial vicar and parish pastor.

Leadership of the Augustinians (1999‑2013) – Elected provincial in Chicago and, two years later, the worldwide Prior General, he visited 50 countries promoting “community over efficiency,” launched the Augustine Centre for Justice & Peace, and oversaw new missions in Kenya and Vietnam.

Bishop of Chiclayo (2014‑2023) – Pope Francis tapped him as apostolic administrator, then bishop, in northern Peru. He created the diocesan Child‑Protection Commission, expanded Caritas soup‑kitchens during El Niño floods, and restored the 18th‑century Cathedral of St Mary.

Service to the Universal Church (2023‑2025) – As Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops he revamped selection processes to include more lay consultation and women in vetting panels, echoing his conviction that “a bishop is a pastor, not a manager.” His elevation to cardinal and now successor of Peter crowns a life of missionary discipleship.