First American Pope Elected: Robert Francis Prevost Named Leo XIV

The Catholic Church has witnessed a historic moment with the election of Robert Francis Prevost as pope, announced by the Vatican on Thursday.

Taking the name Leo XIV, Prevost is the first pope born in the United States, signaling a new chapter for the Church.

Prevost, born in Chicago in 1955, has a rich background in Church service, including his tenure as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru and his role as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops since 2023. His election follows a career marked by missionary work, leadership within the Augustinian order, and close ties to Pope Francis.

While his leadership has been criticized by some advocacy groups over the handling of abuse allegations, Prevost’s election reflects his standing as a moderate and experienced churchman. As Pope Leo XIV, he steps into a role that requires balancing tradition with the demands of a modern, global Church.