Habemus Papam! Pope Leo XIV Becomes First North American Pontiff in Historic Vatican Election

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago ascends to the papacy following Pope Francis’ death; white smoke and cheers mark a new era for the Catholic Church.

By Andrea Lopez

• Fox Rio Grande Valley

Published May 08 2025

Habemus Papam! Pope Leo XIV Becomes First North American Pontiff in Historic Vatican Election

“Peace Be With All of You!” – A New Chapter Begins in Rome

VATICAN CITY — Under the golden glow of a Roman evening and the gaze of thousands in Saint Peter’s Square, the familiar words rang out:
“Habemus Papam!” — We have a Pope.

The announcement came from Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti, declaring that Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost had been elected the 267th Bishop of Rome. Taking the name Leo XIV, the newly elected Pope stepped onto the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, offering his first words with humility and clarity:
“Peace be with all of you!”

His election marks a milestone moment in Church history: the first Augustinian ever to become Pope, and only the second pontiff from the Americas, following Pope Francis.

A Life Rooted in Mission and Community

Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Francis Prevost grew up in a multicultural household—his father of French and Italian descent, his mother of Spanish heritage. He entered the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977 and made his solemn vows in 1981. Three years later, he was ordained a priest in Rome.

After earning his doctorate in Canon Law, Prevost’s ministry would take him across continents—from the academic halls of Rome to the dusty neighborhoods of Trujillo, Peru, where he served for over a decade. There, he became a beloved figure as judicial vicar, professor, and pastor in one of the city’s poorest suburbs.

“Although we Christians are many, in the one Christ we are one,” reads his episcopal motto — a quote from Saint Augustine that speaks to his deep belief in unity and mission.

Leadership in Religious Life and the Global Church

In 1999, Prevost was elected Provincial Prior of the Augustinian Province in Chicago. By 2001, he rose to Prior General of the entire Order, serving two terms at the helm. His leadership skills and global outlook eventually caught the attention of Pope Francis, who in 2014 appointed him Apostolic Administrator of Chiclayo, Peru, and made him Bishop of the Diocese later that year.

He quickly became a prominent figure in Latin America, joining the Peruvian Episcopal Conference and serving in key leadership roles related to culture, education, and the Church’s economic structure.

In 2023, Pope Francis brought him back to Rome as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, roles central to shaping the future leadership of the Church.

A Cardinal with Global Vision

Cardinal Prevost was created a cardinal on September 30, 2024, by Pope Francis. Over the following year, he played a visible and active role in the Synod on Synodality and accompanied the Pope on multiple apostolic journeys.

He also served across several Vatican dicasteries, from Evangelization and the Doctrine of the Faith to Legislative Texts and Culture. His wide-ranging experience across governance, theology, and missionary work made him a compelling candidate during the conclave.

The Path Ahead as Leo XIV

Now, as Pope Leo XIV, he inherits a Church deeply engaged in the themes of synodality, inclusion, and global unity. His background—American-born, Peruvian-rooted, Augustinian in formation—positions him as a bridge between continents, cultures, and generations.

His name, “Leo,” evokes memories of Saint Leo the Great, known for his clarity in doctrine and courage in leadership. As the Church now looks to the future, Leo XIV appears ready to guide it with wisdom forged in mission, community, and service.