On Thursday, May 8, Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago-born missionary who spent decades serving in Peru, was elected as the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, the 69-year-old spiritual leader now assumes the responsibility of guiding the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics. His election was the result of a conclave held in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, where cardinals gathered in secrecy to select the new pontiff.
Pope Leo XIV’s first public appearance came hours after his election, as he appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to address tens of thousands of well-wishers. Despite being a relative unknown globally, his humble demeanor and service in Peru have endeared him to many. As a newly appointed cardinal in 2023, Leo had been on the radar of Vatican observers as a potential candidate, though his name had not been among the top contenders.
On May 9, Pope Leo XIV will celebrate his first mass at 11:00 am local time, in the Sistine Chapel, accompanied by cardinals. This moment will be broadcasted, offering a glimpse into his approach to leadership. His inaugural homily will likely set the tone for his papacy. Over the following days, his actions and speeches will be closely analyzed, including his first Regina Coeli prayer on Sunday and a meeting with journalists on May 12.
Internationally, his election is being met with respect and anticipation, particularly in Peru, where figures like Luis Alberto Barrera, the Bishop of El Callao, have praised Leo’s extensive missionary work. As Pope Leo XIV embarks on his journey, the Catholic community around the world is eager to see how his leadership will shape the future of the Church.
The Vatican also confirmed that Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration mass will take place on Sunday, May 18, in St. Peter’s Square. World leaders are expected to gather for the event, marking a historic moment for the papacy. A series of key meetings, including a gathering with diplomats and a general audience, will follow in the coming weeks, further shaping the early days of his papacy.
