By Naa Dedei Aryee
In a historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the new pope, becoming the first American to ascend to the papacy.
The 69-year-old prelate emerged onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to thunderous applause and cheers from thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, where he was introduced to the world as Pope Leo XIV.
Prevost, originally from Chicago, has long been recognized for his work in Latin America and his role as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. His election marks a significant shift in the Church’s global leadership, reflecting the growing influence of the Americas within Catholicism.
“Fratelli e sorelle, buonasera,” Pope Leo greeted the crowd, echoing the memorable words of his predecessor, Pope Francis, during his own election in 2013. He expressed humility and a deep sense of responsibility in taking on the role, calling for unity, compassion, and renewed faith.
Pope Leo succeeds Pope Francis, who abdicated earlier this year due to declining health. The conclave of cardinals reportedly reached consensus on Prevost after several days of deliberation, viewing him as a bridge-builder with pastoral experience and administrative acumen.
