White Smoke Over the Vatican: America Welcomes Its First Pope, Leo XIV
A plume of white smoke billowed above the Vatican on Thursday evening, signaling a moment that would echo across history: 69-year-old Robert Francis Prevost, an American, had been elected the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church. Taking the name Leo XIV, he became the first pontiff in over a century to revive the name Leo, and the first American ever to lead the Church.
As crowds in St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers, the newly elected Pope stepped onto the iconic balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. His first words: “Peace be with you.”
The historic moment followed two days of solemn deliberation by the College of Cardinals, locked inside the Sistine Chapel. Upon his election, Pope Leo XIV addressed the world with warmth and humility:
“Dearest brothers and sisters, this was the first greeting of the risen Christ… I, too, would like this greeting of peace to enter your hearts, to reach your families and all people, wherever they are… Peace be with you.”
He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, calling his voice “weak but always brave,” and acknowledged his fellow cardinals for entrusting him with the papacy. A heartfelt message followed to the Diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, where he once served as bishop, reflecting his deep roots in Latin America.
Why “Leo”?
The choice of the name Leo is no accident. According to theologian Dennis Doyle, papal names reflect a new pontiff’s intended direction. Speaking to CBS, Doyle said:
“You ask, which popes have had this name before? That tells you something about the new pope’s vision.”
Papal expert Candida Moss noted that Pope Leo the Great — who reigned from 440 to 461 — famously persuaded Attila the Hun to spare Rome and was known as a theological reformer.
“This name may signal that Leo XIV intends to be a moral force against oppression, a voice for reform,” Moss explained.
Who Is Pope Leo XIV?
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago’s southern suburbs, Robert Prevost was drawn to the priesthood early. His brother John recalls:
“He probably knew in first grade. There was no question.”
After joining the Augustinians, Prevost studied at Villanova, took his vows in 1981, and was later sent to Peru, where he would spend much of his life. In 2014, he was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo and became known for his calm leadership and approachability.
“No matter how many problems he had, he always kept his humor,” said Rev. Fidel Purisaca Vigil.
Former roommate Rev. John Lyndon, who lived with him in Peru for a decade, described him as “down-to-earth,” “joyful,” and someone who “made a mean pizza.”
“We always had to block out a week for his birthday. Every part of the parish wanted to celebrate him,” Lyndon added.
Leo holds dual American and Peruvian citizenship and has spent years in Vatican leadership. He most recently led the Dicastery for Bishops and the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
A Pope of Progress
Known for supporting Pope Francis’ reforms, Leo XIV has backed blessings for same-sex couples and emphasized the importance of local bishops interpreting doctrine within their own cultures. An environmental advocate, he has spoken about moving from “words to action” on climate change, championed solar power and EVs, and encouraged deeper reciprocity with nature.
He has also advocated for increased female leadership in the Church, echoing Pope Francis’ praise for women’s perspectives as an “enrichment.”
From Long Shot to Leader
Despite his accomplishments, Leo was not widely seen as a frontrunner for the papacy. Even his brother didn’t believe it was happening — at first.
“He didn’t think he’d be elected,” John Prevost told NBC. “He was up against major contenders… I didn’t believe it. Rob didn’t believe it. Nobody believed an American could be Pope.”
But history had other plans.
Applause — and Backlash
Congratulations poured in from across the globe, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, who posted on Truth Social:
“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. What excitement, and what a great honor for our country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”
However, not all were celebrating. Some MAGA-aligned conservatives voiced fury online, denouncing Leo as “woke” and “a globalist.” Right-wing figures like Mike Cernovich and Joe Mannarino lashed out, referencing Leo’s past criticisms of anti-immigrant policies, his defense of George Floyd, and his progressive stances on Church reform.
“Sorry, Catholics. This new Pope is an open borders globalist,” Cernovich posted.
“He’s worse than Francis,” others echoed.
Even before the election, Steve Bannon had warned that Prevost was “one of the most progressive” candidates being considered.
A Papacy Begins
Regardless of political sentiment, Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a defining moment in the history of the Catholic Church — a shift not only in nationality but perhaps in tone, direction, and spirit.
As the world watches, the question now becomes: What kind of shepherd will Leo XIV be?
