Robert Francis Prevost became the first American pope on Thursday. Cardinals from around the world elected him as the leader of the Catholic Church, which has 1.4 billion members. He chose the papal name Leo XIV.
Tens of thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square. They cheered as Prevost stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. He smiled, waved with both hands, and bowed.
“Peace be with you,” he told the crowd.
White smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, signaling his election after two days of voting in a secret conclave. Bells rang from St. Peter’s Basilica and churches across Rome. People rushed toward the square to witness the moment. Red curtains covered the basilica’s balcony for his first public appearance as the 267th pope.
The Vatican introduced him in Latin with his chosen papal name.
The crowd erupted in celebration. One priest climbed onto someone’s shoulders and waved a Brazilian flag. Another priest raised a large crucifix high into the air.
“Habemus papam, woooo!” shouted Bruna Hodara, a 41-year-old from Brazil. She repeated the traditional phrase used when a new pope is announced. She recorded the moment on her phone while others waved flags and shouted, “Viva il Papa!” — “Long live the pope!”
Florian Fried, a 15-year-old from Munich, shared his excitement. “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to be here to see the pope. It’s really special… I’m excited!”
Pope Francis, the previous pope from Argentina, died last month at age 88. During his 12-year papacy, he aimed to make the Church more compassionate. His progressive views, however, angered many conservatives.
