Vatican City – Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, was elected by a conclave of cardinals on May 8, 2025, with the announcement marked by white smoke from the Sistine Chapel. His first message emphasized themes of peace and unity, echoing the sentiments of his predecessor, Pope Francis, while suggesting a blend of inclusivity and tradition in his papacy. Leo XIV, a Chicago-born cleric with experience in Peru, aims to be a unifying figure amid a diverse and international church, reflecting both the challenges of poverty and the need for dialogue.
