Leo XIV Elected as the New Pope

On May 8^th, during the conclave to elect the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago-born Augustinian and former missionary in Peru, was elected as the 267^th pope, taking the name Leo XIV. The conclave, a secretive gathering of the College of Cardinals, began on May 7^th and concluded on May 8^th in the Sistine Chapel. The term conclave originates from the Latin phrase cum clavis, meaning “together with a key,” referring to the tradition of locking the cardinals inside the chapel until a new pope is chosen. All cardinals under the age of 80 participated as electors, casting anonymous ballots in successive rounds until a two-thirds majority was reached. Prevost’s election was announced to the public with the traditional “Habemus Papam” declaration by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Although he was not considered a leading contender before the conclave, Prevost gained significant support early in the voting process. His extensive experience in as a missionary and bishop in Peru, contributed to his appeal among the electors. Pope Leo XIV is the first Americanborn individual to ascend to the papacy and the first member of the Order of Saint Augustine to do so. In his first address, he emphasized themes of peace and inclusivity, signaling a commitment to bridge-building within the Church and with the broader global community.