Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as New Pope in Vatican City.

On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, originally from the United States of America (USA), was elected as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church. His election took place during the Papal Conclave held in the Sistine Chapel, Vatican City, where cardinals from around the world gathered. He adopted the name Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first-ever pope from the USA. He succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025.

      - Following the demise of Pope Francis, a total of 133 red-robed cardinals convened in Vatican City to elect the next pontiff. This sacred gathering, known as the Papal Conclave, began its process in the Sistine Chapel. It took two days of voting, and Cardinal Prevost was elected on the fourth ballot, securing a two-thirds majority with at least 89 votes.

      - As per tradition, the election process used colored smoke to signal the results to the public. Black smoke indicates an inconclusive vote, prompting further ballots. White smoke, however, announces the successful election of a new pope. On the second day of the conclave, white smoke emerged, confirming the selection of Pope Leo XIV.

      - Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost began his religious life by joining the Order of Saint Augustine. He was ordained as a priest in Rome in 1982. In 1985, he moved to Peru, where he served in several capacities including as a parish pastor, seminary teacher, and diocesan official, dedicating years of service to the Church and the local communities.

Main Point :-   (i) From 2001 to 2013, Prevost served as the Prior General of the Order of Saint Augustine, a global leadership position within his religious order. In 2015, he was appointed as the Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, continuing his long-standing commitment to the Peruvian Catholic community. He also holds dual citizenship of the USA and Peru.

      (ii) In 2023, Pope Francis appointed Prevost to one of the most influential positions in the Church hierarchy—as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. These roles gave him a major responsibility in appointing bishops and managing Church affairs in Latin America.

(iii) With a rich background in missionary work, ecclesiastical leadership, and deep connections to both the USA and Latin America, Pope Leo XIV (Robert Francis Prevost) represents a historic choice. His election marks a new chapter in the global Catholic Church, reflecting its increasing diversity and outreach.