History was made in Vatican City as Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the 267th pope, becoming the first American ever to lead the Roman Catholic Church.

Chosen on the second day of the papal conclave by 133 cardinals, the 69-year-old now steps into one of the world’s most sacred and scrutinized roles.

After white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel—signaling a successful vote—Prevost emerged on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, greeting the cheering crowd with his first words as pope: “Peace be with you all.”

A New Leader with American Roots

Taking the papal name Leo XIV, Prevost marks a new era in Church history—not just because of his nationality, but because of what he represents. Known as a thoughtful, reform-minded leader, he is expected to carry forward many of the ideas introduced by his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away at age 88 on April 21.

Prevost was elevated to cardinal just two years ago, in 2023, and was brought to Rome by Pope Francis himself to oversee a key office responsible for appointing bishops worldwide. Before that, he spent much of his life serving as a missionary in Peru, working closely with local communities—experiences that have deeply shaped his worldview.

His election is already drawing comparisons to fiction. Italian media, for example, have pointed to the American character Lenny Belardo from The Young Pope, a popular series where Jude Law plays a U.S.-born pontiff named Pius XIII. But Pope Leo XIV is no television drama—his influence on the real world is just beginning.

The Conclave: A Sacred Voting Process

The selection of a pope is a tradition steeped in centuries of ritual. This year’s conclave followed the same ancient custom: 133 cardinals locked inside the Sistine Chapel, casting secret ballots until a two-thirds majority was reached.

To win, a candidate needed 89 votes. Once that number was hit, white smoke billowed from the chapel’s chimney, and the world waited. About 70 minutes later, the new pope stepped into the spotlight.

It was a moment packed with emotion, history, and change.

A Message of Unity

In his first address, Pope Leo XIV called for global unity, saying the world must strive to become “a single people” and live in peace. He also paid tribute to Pope Francis, noting that even in his final days, his weak voice “still rang out to the world.”

Francis, who was the first Latin American pope, served for 12 years and worked hard to make the Catholic Church more open, diverse, and welcoming. Under his leadership, the Vatican began to address long-standing issues—from financial transparency to LGBTQ+ inclusion.

He also played a significant role in shaping this latest conclave: 80% of the voting cardinals were appointed by Francis himself. Many of them are younger, more racially diverse, and open to progressive ideas—just like Francis envisioned.

A Complex Legacy on LGBTQ+ Issues

However, while Pope Leo XIV is seen as a progressive in many areas, his past comments on LGBTQ+ issues have sparked concern.

According to The New York Times, Prevost once warned fellow bishops about the growing “sympathy” in Western culture for lifestyles “at odds with the gospel.” In a 2012 speech, he criticized what he called the “homosexual lifestyle” and “alternative families” made up of same-sex couples and their adopted children.

This stance stands in contrast to Pope Francis, who, while not changing official doctrine, made efforts to welcome LGBTQ+ individuals and emphasize compassion over judgment.

As the world watches, many are wondering: Will Leo XIV evolve on these issues? Or will his leadership focus more on continuity with Catholic tradition?

What’s Next for Pope Leo XIV?

Pope Leo XIV is stepping into a role filled with spiritual weight, global responsibility, and no shortage of challenges—from declining church attendance in the West to political tensions around the world.

But with his unique background—a mix of American upbringing, Latin American missionary work, and Vatican-level leadership—he may be one of the most interesting popes in modern history.

He now faces the delicate task of balancing tradition with change, unity with truth, and doctrine with compassion.

One thing is clear: The world is watching. And the Church is once again at a crossroads.