Robert Prevost Becomes First American Pope, Takes Name Leo XIV

Vatican: Robert Prevost has been elected as the new pope and will be known as Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American to become the leader of the Catholic Church.

The 69-year-old was welcomed with loud cheers from thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square. He appeared on the balcony and greeted the world, calling for peace and courage, saying that God loves everyone and that evil will not win.

Pope Leo XIV was elected on the second day of the conclave. White smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel shortly after 5 p.m. UK time on May 8, signaling the election of a new pope.

Born in Chicago, Leo XIV is known as a reformer. He worked for many years as a missionary in Peru and later became an archbishop there. He was made a cardinal by Pope Francis and is known for supporting the poor, much like his predecessor. However, he has also faced criticism for how he handled cases involving priests accused of sexual abuse.