Chicago’s Robert Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV

Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American and a dual U.S.-Peruvian citizen to lead the Catholic Church. Widely experienced as a missionary in Peru and as a senior Vatican official, Pope Leo XIV is expected to continue Pope Francis’s emphasis on social justice, unity, and openness, themes he highlighted in his first Mass and public remarks. His election has sparked pride in Chicago and among American Catholics, with Cardinal Blase Cupich and other local faith leaders expressing strong support. International reactions have been largely positive, seeing his leadership as a bridge-building opportunity and a further step in Church reforms. Pope Leo XIV's diverse background and reform-minded approach position him as a unique global leader. Lighthearted details, such as playing Wordle before the conclave, contrasted with the solemnity of his new responsibilities as recognized by both peers and family.