First American Pope Leo XIV Elected, Emphasizing Peace and Unity

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American pontiff in history. In his first message from St. Peter's Basilica, he emphasized peace and unity within the Catholic Church. His election has garnered reactions from around the world, celebrating his ties to both the U.S. and Peru, where he spent part of his career.

Pope Leo XIV has made history as the first American pontiff, having been elected on May 8, 2025. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now 69, greeted onlookers in St. Peter’s Square with the words "Peace be with you," a phrase that set the tone for his papacy. Hailing from Chicago, Prevost served for over two decades in Peru, becoming a bishop before being elevated to cardinal in 2023 by Pope Francis. His election signifies a departure from long-held beliefs that the papacy would remain within Europe's traditional bounds, signifying a shift towards a more inclusive era for the Catholic Church.

The conclave convened in the wake of Pope Francis's death, concluding their deliberations in less than 24 hours. Pope Leo XIV's statements during his first address on the Vatican balcony focused heavily on themes of peace, justice, and unity, indicating a commitment to continue the work of reform his predecessor initiated. His election has been met with celebration from both American Catholics—who view this as a significant moment in their church's history—as well as from Peruvians, where many claim him as one of their own.

Throughout his time in Peru, Prevost gained a reputation for his compassion towards the poor and a hands-on approach to leadership. Known for delivering supplies during natural disasters, he garnered respect among those he served. His supporters suggest he may follow a similar, if not cautious route, regarding issues of inclusivity and social justice central to the previous papacy while advocating for the marginalized.

In addition to his exemplary service, U.S. leaders, including President Joe Biden and former President Trump, have issued statements of congratulations on his selection, emphasizing expectations of fostering unity and peace. Reactions span from national pride to expressions of hope regarding Leo XIV's future directives on hot-button social issues, especially concerning LGBTQ rights—an area where his public stance remains less defined.

As the new leader of 1.4 billion Catholics globally, Pope Leo XIV promises to transcend boundaries and ideological divides, focusing on establishing bridges and fostering an inclusive dialogue within the Church. His rise to leadership brings with it a mix of anticipation and scrutiny, as the world watches to see how he will navigate the complexities of faith, culture, and society in an evolving world.