Robert Francis Prevost will now be known as Pope Leo XIV
The identity of the new pope has been revealed as US-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.
His election was confirmed on the second day of voting by the 133 cardinal electors convened in the Vatican.
Pope Leo XIV’s selection follows the death of Pope Francis, marking a historic moment as Prevost becomes the first American to ascend to the papacy.
His election was announced in traditional fashion through the white smoke rising from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that a new pontiff had been chosen.
The 133 cardinals participating in the conclave were locked inside the Sistine Chapel, following centuries-old tradition.
During the voting process, their only form of communication with the outside world was through the smoke signals emitted after each ballot.
Pope Leo XIV, delivering his first public address and apostolic blessing, known as Urbi et Orbi (“to the city and the world”), to thousands of pilgrims and onlookers gathered in St. Peter’s Square, stated, “May peace be with all of you,”
He paid tribute to his predecessor and also spoke briefly in Spanish to thank his former diocese.
“Help us, and help each other, build bridges,” he told the crowd of more than 40,000 people in St Peter’s Square.
