On May 8, 2025, white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the new Supreme Pontiff. At 69 years old, Prevost becomes the first pope from the United States, succeeding Pope Francis.
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Prevost was ordained a priest in 1982. He joined the Order of Saint Augustine and served as a missionary in Peru for several years. In 2014, he was appointed bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, before being called to Rome in 2023 to lead the Congregation for Bishops.
Known for his commitment to social justice and his pastoral experience in Latin America, Prevost brings a global perspective to the papacy. His election is seen as a sign of openness and continuity with the reforms initiated by his predecessor.
St. Peter’s Square welcomed the announcement “Habemus Papam” with emotion, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church.
