Vatican Gets First American Pope, Leo XIV: Here's All About His Life, Milestones And Worldview

Successor to Pope Francis, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected as the new pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement came on Thursday evening, as white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel.

An estimated 50,000 people erupted in cheers at St Peter’s Square as the new pontiff was introduced from the basilica's central balcony.

Pope Leo XIV, born in Chicago (United States) in 1955, marks a series of firsts for the papacy: he is the first American and the first Peruvian pope, reflecting his deep ties to both countries. He was appointed by Pope Francis in 2023 as the head of the Dicastery for Bishops, a powerful Vatican post responsible for selecting new bishops worldwide

7 Firsts and Milestones of Pope Leo XIV:

First American Pope – Born in Chicago in 1955.

First Peruvian Pope – Reflects his years of ministry in Peru.

Missionary Roots – Served as pastor, teacher, and official in Peru.

Augustinian Leader – Prior General of the Order (2001–2013).

Bishop of Chiclayo – Led a key Peruvian diocese.

Vatican Power Player – Appointed in 2023 to lead the Dicastery for Bishops.

Cross-Continental Legacy – A bridge between North and South America.

Prevost’s elevation to the papacy is seen as both a surprise and a compromise, with his background in Latin America and the United States making him a universal figure within the Church. 

He is known to be closely aligned with Pope Francis’s vision, particularly on issues such as environmental stewardship, outreach to the poor and migrants, and a more pastoral approach to church leadership. 

Causes He Supports:

Environment: Promotes green initiatives like solar energy in the Vatican.

Immigration: Advocates for migrant rights and humane policies.

Women’s Roles: Supports more leadership roles for women (not priesthood).

Anti–Death Penalty: Opposes capital punishment globally.

Causes He Opposes:

Same-Sex Marriage & Gender Ideology: Upholds traditional views on family and gender.

Abortion & Euthanasia: Firmly pro-life; against both.

Women Priests: Does not support the ordination of women.

As Pope Leo XIV steps onto the world stage, Catholics and observers alike are watching to see whether he will continue the path of reform and openness championed by his predecessor or chart a new course for the 1.4 billion-member Church.