Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo XIV
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Former Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States was selected Thursday by the papal conclave to succeed Pope Francis and lead the Roman Catholic Church. The new pontiff, who has taken the name Leo XIV,
Pope Leo was announced as Pope Francis’ successor on May 8, 2025, becoming the first American pontiff in Vatican history.
Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was chosen as the 267th Pope elected by 133 cardinals locked inside the Sistine Chapel on the second day of their conclave — a process that has been in the cultural zeitgeist recently due to the Oscar-nominated movie of the same name starring Ralph Fiennes.
Pope Leo XIV is the first Pope from the Order of St. Augustine, which suggests he will promote peace and dialogue.
Donald Trump touted how he won the Catholic vote as he blasted an ABC reporter for "effectively" saying "Pope Leo's selection had nothing to do with Trump." The President has said said it is "an honor" to have an American pope but there has been much talk about whether Leo's politics align with those of the current administration.
Pope Leo XIV appealed for "no more war" in a message to world powers during his first Sunday address at the Vatican. Reflecting on current conflicts, the newly selected pontiff called for a "lasting peace" in the war in Ukraine,