In a historic first for the Roman Catholic Church, Chicago’s Cardinal Robert Prevost was chosen as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church on May 8, 2025. He assumed the name Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American to ever hold the position of the pontiff, opening a new chapter for the Vatican.
A Moment of Reflection and Humility
The news of the election of Pope Leo XIV was preceded by an emotional video uploaded by Vatican News, which captures a moment of deep humility and prayer. In the video, Pope Leo XIV hugs each of the 133 cardinals who took part in the conclave. This moving act of gratitude and humility was done within the sacred walls of the Sistine Chapel, which is a source of deep spiritual meaning.
Pope Leo XIV embraces each of the Cardinal electors just after he accepts his election to become the 267th Pope. pic.twitter.com/0cP28r7mam
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 8, 2025
The new pope, having made a prayer at the altar, went into private prayer on his knees, a strong gesture that reflects his dedication to a humble papacy.
A Gradual Rise to the Papacy
Prevost’s journey to the papacy has been that of a gradual rise through the ranks of the Church. A former leader among the Augustinian Order, he thereafter served on some key appointments for the late Pope Francis. Prevost was appointed administrator of the Diocese of Chicago prior to his promotion to bishop, where he served a key role in furthering much of Pope Francis’ revolutionary reforms. His election demonstrates intense unity among the College of Cardinals, who voted for him on the second day of the conclave.
The Legacy of Leo
Pope Leo XIV is the 14th pope to adopt the name Leo, following in the footsteps of his namesake, Pope Leo XIII. Known for his influential encyclical Rerum Novarum, which addressed workers’ rights and economic justice during the Industrial Revolution, Pope Leo XIII’s legacy continues to inspire, and Pope Leo XIV is expected to carry forward this tradition of advocating for social justice.
Pope Leo XIV will celebrate Mass at the Sistine Chapel on Friday morning. Then, on Sunday, he will deliver his first public blessing. As the first pope from the United States in history, his tenure is therefore expected to usher in a new wave of ideas for the Vatican—particularly in addressing global challenges.
