Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago-born Augustinian missionary with dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship, has been elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Leo XIV. His election on May 8, 2025, marks the first time an American has ascended to the papacy. At 69 years old, Prevost was serving as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America at the time of his election. Reuters+3Reuters+3Wikipedia+3ReutersWikipedia+1Wikipedia+1

In his inaugural address from St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude for the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis, and emphasized the need to continue the reforms initiated by Francis, particularly in promoting social justice and interfaith dialogue. He also acknowledged modern challenges such as artificial intelligence and the importance of protecting human dignity and labor rights. Wikipedia+2Reuters+2Reuters+2

On May 9, Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass as pope in the Sistine Chapel, warning against the lack of faith in the world and calling for the Church to act as a "beacon that illuminates the dark nights of this world." Wikipedia

The election of Pope Leo XIV has been met with both celebration and scrutiny. While figures such as Peruvian President Dina Boluarte and former U.S. President Donald Trump have congratulated him, the advocacy group SNAP has expressed concern over his past handling of clerical abuse cases. Wikipedia+7Reuters+7Wikipedia+7Reuters

Pope Leo XIV's papacy is seen as a continuation of Pope Francis's vision, with a focus on social justice, inclusivity, and addressing contemporary global issues.