Posted originally on CTH on May 8, 2025 | Sundance

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago has been selected by the papal conclave to become the next pope.  Cardinal Prevost was created by Pope Francis in 2023.  As the new Bishop of Rome, Cardinal Prevost has selected the name Pope Leo XIV.

(VIA MSM) – Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has become the first-ever American elected as the leader of the Catholic Church — now known by his pontifical name of Pope Leo XIV.

The 69-year-old, born on the Southside of Chicago, is seen as a diplomat of the church and was an important adviser to his predecessor, Pope Francis.

He became a front-runner to the papacy in the days before the conclave began, said Rev. James Martin, a papal contributor to ABC News.

Leo emerged from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday evening to throngs of cheering crowds, following the signal of white smoke that emanated from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel.

Leo is the fifth-most-popular name chosen by popes. Pope Leo XIV’s full authority and jurisdiction begins immediately upon his acceptance of the office. (more)

♦ Pope Leo XIV, American-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, has addressed thousands of people gathered in Vatican Square for the first time as pontiff.

Leo took a moment to take in the crowd after stepping onto the center balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, before delivering his remarks.

“Greetings, brothers and sisters. This is the first greeting of the risen Christ. May the peace be with you,” Leo said in Italian. “This is the peace of the risen Christ.”

Leo asked the crowd to pray for the late Pope Francis and expressed gratitude to his predecessor — encouraging followers to continue Francis’ mission “for building bridges.”

“We have to be a church that works together to build bridges and to keep our arms open, like this very piazza, welcoming,” Leo told the crowd.

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