The College of Cardinals has elected Pope Leo XIV, who aims to foster unity amidst global divisions.
SAN ANTONIO — White smoke, ringing bells and a cheering crowd alerted the world to the election of a new pope. It was day two of a centuries-old tradition of choosing a new leader of the Catholic Church in the Papal Conclave.
The College of Cardinals has elected Pope Leo XIV, who aims to foster unity amidst global divisions. Robert Prevost is the first American pope to ever be elected.
The Chicago native is also a Peruvian citizen and lived for years in Peru, first as a missionary and then as an archbishop.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, he was born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago and was part of St. Mary of the Assumption parish near Dolton, Illinois.
While reaction is coming in from all over the world, here in San Antonio, Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller
Habemus Papam! The Holy Spirit through the College of Cardinals gave to the Church and the world our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. His name reflects reading the signs of the times. He is close to the realities of a world touched by division and strife. He brings now the message of the Risen Christ: Peace be with you. In his first comments Pope Leo XIV said, “We are disciples of Christ, Christ goes before us, and the world needs His light. Humanity needs Him like a bridge to reach God and His love. You help us to build bridges with dialogue and encounter so we can all be one people always in peace.” He is continuing the pastoral work of Pope Francis. Pope Leo XIV is a man of profound faith and charity who will lead us to build unity of all men and women.