On May 8, 2025, the Catholic Church elected a new pope during the papal conclave which was held after the death of Pope Francis on Apr. 21. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American originally from Chicago, was chosen as the next pope and took the name Leo XIV. He is the first American to be elected as the pope. The white smoke appeared from the Sistine Chapel on the second day of voting, letting the world know that a decision had been made. Pope Leo XIV came out to greet the crowd at St. Peter’s Square and gave his first blessing, speaking in both Italian and Spanish to connect with a larger audience.
Pope Leo XIV’s background includes time as a missionary in Peru and leadership in the Vatican’s Dicastry for Bishops, the department that picks new bishops. Many believe he will continue the legacy of Pope Francis as he emphasized “building bridges” and “extending charity” in his inaugural address. Through his international experience and deep ties to the Latin America, many hope he will bring Catholics together globally. His election reflects the changing views of the Church is changing and its mission to support themes of compassion and unity.
“I didn’t know much about the whole process until I watched the movie The Conclave which came out last year. I definitely recommend watching it to see what goes on in the Vatican during this time,” junior Sahana Senthilkumar said. “Pope Francis was an amazing man and I’m interested to see how the new pope will continue his legacy.”
