The decision came shortly after 6 p.m. local time, when white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney and the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out.
By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the new pope, becoming the first American to hold the papacy.
The 69-year-old Chicago-born cleric emerged as the choice of the College of Cardinals on the second day of the conclave, following the death of Pope Francis at age 88.
Taking the name Leo XIV, Pope Prevost addressed the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Thursday evening.
“I am humbled by the trust placed in me by my brother cardinals,” he said in his first remarks from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. “I take the name Leo XIV in hoofur of those who led with courage and compassion, and I pray for strength and wisdom in this new mission.”
The decision came shortly after 6 p.m. local time, when white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney and the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out — the traditional signal that a new pope had been chosen.
“The moment we saw the white smoke, the square erupted in cheers,” said Maria Galli, a pilgrim from Naples. “It felt like a new chapter had begun.”
The election followed a series of inconclusive ballots on the first day, which were marked by black smoke — indicating no decision had been reached.
This conclave, which began on May 7, was notable for having the largest number of electors in history, with 133 cardinals participating in the vote.
“It was a solemn and prayerful process,” said Cardinal Luis Tagle, one of the participants in the conclave. “We asked for the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and we believe the choice of Pope Leo XIV reflects that divine wisdom.”
Over 10,000 faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to witness the historic moment, many waving flags and holding rosaries as they awaited the outcome.
“We’ve waited in prayer and hope,” said Father Miguel Herrera from Mexico. “This is a powerful sign for Catholics around the world — that the Church continues to grow and adapt while remaining rooted in faith.”
Pope Leo XIV previously served for two decades in Peru and was known for his pastoral care and commitment to social justice. His election signals a potentially new direction for the Church, blending North American roots with Latin American experience.