The Roman Catholic Church has a new leader. On the second day of the conclave in Vatican City, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected pope. He has taken the name Pope Leo XIV. The traditional white smoke from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, a centuries-old signal of a new pope’s election, preceded the announcement.
Crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers as the senior cardinal deacon delivered the long-anticipated Latin phrase: “Habemus Papam” — “We have a pope.”
Who Is Pope Leone XIV?
Born in the United States in 1955, Robert Francis Prevost was a key figure in the Vatican prior to his election. He served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, the office responsible for appointing bishops worldwide. His role positioned him at the heart of church governance, with influence extending to dioceses across continents.
Pope Leo XIV is also widely known for his pastoral work in Latin America, particularly in Peru, where he served as a bishop for over a decade. He speaks English, Spanish, and Italian and has often emphasised themes such as social justice, dialogue, and pastoral care.
His election follows the resignation or death of Pope Francis (dependent on context), marking the beginning of a new chapter in the Church’s leadership.
Significance of the Name “Leone XIV”
The newly elected pope’s choice of name — Leone — links him to historical popes who emphasised doctrine and social responsibility. Notably, Pope Leo XIII, remembered for his 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum on the rights of workers, may be a source of inspiration for Leo XIV’s papacy.
Analysts suggest this name may signal a continued focus on the Church’s role in promoting justice, dignity, and dialogue in a changing world.
Reactions Across the World and Africa
The election of Pope Leone XIV has sparked immediate global reaction. In Africa, where the Catholic Church continues to grow rapidly, the faithful are watching closely.
Although some had hoped for the first African pope in modern history. Many Church observers, however, highlight Leone XIV’s international background and his exposure to global challenges as strengths that will benefit Catholics worldwide.
Speaking to Mimi Mefo Info, a Catholic priest in Cameroon said:
“What matters now is not where the pope is from but what direction he takes the Church in. We hope Pope Leo XIV will be a voice for peace and the marginalised.”
What’s Next
Pope Leo XIV delivered his first blessing to the city and the world — “Urbi et Orbi.” That message was a blessing to the world from the 267th successor to St Peter.
He inherits a Church facing both internal and external challenges, from declining attendance in parts of the West to conflict, poverty, and rapid growth in places like Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
As Catholics await his first words, the world watches the dawn of a new papacy.
