History was made today as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected pope, becoming Pope Leo XIV—the first American to lead the Catholic Church.
The 69-year-old was chosen after just one day of voting by the College of Cardinals, with white smoke rising over the Sistine Chapel confirming the decision.
Born in the U.S. but shaped by missionary work in Peru, Pope Leo is known for his humility and advocacy for the poor and migrants, echoing the values of
his predecessor, Pope Francis. A friend described him as “very simple” and always ready to help others. Read more below
