Pope Leo XIV has been officially unveiled as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church, becoming the first American to ascend to the papacy.
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, the 69-year-old Chicago-born cleric, was elected on May 8, 2025, following a swift conclave and the traditional appearance of white smoke above the Sistine Chapel, signaling a consensus among the College of Cardinals.
The newly elected pontiff chose the name Leo XIV, aligning himself with the legacy of Pope Leo XIII, known for championing social justice and workers' rights in the 19th century.
This choice is seen as a symbolic gesture underscoring Pope Leo XIV’s vision of a more inclusive, service-driven church in a time of global unrest and shifting religious dynamics.
Addressing the cheering crowd in Italian, 69-year-old says: "Peace be with all of you."
"Brothers and sisters dearest, this is the first greeting of Christ resurrected. I would like to offer a greeting of peace to reach your families, all of you, wherever you are. May peace be with you."
He paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, and said he wants to deliver his own blessing to the people as Pope Francis did in his last appearance in St Peter's Square.
"Humanity needs Christ as a bridge to be reached by God and his love. Help us, and help each other, build bridges," he said.
Prior to his election, Pope Leo XIV served as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, where he played a crucial role in shaping episcopal leadership worldwide.
His deep-rooted service includes years of missionary work in Peru, where he was deeply involved in pastoral and community development—an experience that has greatly influenced his approach to Church leadership.
Pope Leo XIV thanked the cardinals who elected him during the two-day conclave. He briefly pauses as the crowd applauds and cheers.
"We can all walk together towards that homeland God has prepared for us," he said. "A special greeting to the Church of Rome,"
The Provost then switched to Spanish to thank his former diocese in Peru "where a loyal people has shared its faith and has given a lot".
Switching back to Italian, the new pontiff called on the crowd to pray to the Virgin Mary "together" for her blessing.
He then led the people in a quick prayer, which was greeted by further cheers.
After concluding his speech, the new Pope started reading a religious passage in Latin paying homage to the saints and the Madonna.
Described as a centrist and unifier, Pope Leo XIV is expected to bridge ideological divisions that have increasingly characterized global Catholicism.
His pastoral tone and diplomatic acumen are seen as essential qualities to lead a Church grappling with issues ranging from secularism and clerical abuse scandals to declining vocations and evolving social attitudes.
As Pope Leo XIV prepares to lead more than 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, attention now turns to the key appointments and reforms he is expected to undertake in the early days of his papacy.
Many are hopeful that his leadership will usher in a new era of transparency, compassion, and global solidarity for the Catholic Church.
The world now watches as Pope Leo XIV steps into history, tasked with guiding the Church through its modern-day challenges while honoring the spiritual traditions that span centuries.