White Smoke Signals Historic Moment: Robert Francis Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV
White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney Thursday evening, announcing to the world that a new pope had been chosen. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American, has been elected as the next leader of the Catholic Church. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff to adopt the name Leo in more than 100 years.
The announcement was met with both jubilation and controversy. While many Catholics celebrated the milestone, the election stirred backlash among conservative political circles in the United States, particularly from supporters of the MAGA movement.
The papal conclave, held in the Sistine Chapel, concluded just two days after it convened. As tradition dictates, the white smoke indicated a successful vote, prompting cheers from thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Moments later, Prevost stepped onto the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the faithful.
In an interview with CBS, theologian Dennis Doyle explained the significance behind a pope’s chosen name, noting it often signals the new pontiff’s vision for the Church. CBS contributor Candida Moss pointed out that the name "Leo" evokes Pope Leo the Great (440–461), who famously persuaded Attila the Hun to spare Rome. She suggested Pope Leo XIV’s choice could reflect a similarly courageous and reform-minded agenda.
Delivering his first public remarks as pope, Leo XIV began simply: “Peace be with you.” He spoke of unity, compassion, and hope—echoing themes central to both Christ’s teachings and the legacy of Pope Francis, his immediate predecessor.
“THIS IS THE PEACE OF THE RISEN CHRIST,” he proclaimed. “LET US KEEP IN OUR EARS THE WEAK BUT ALWAYS BRAVE VOICE OF POPE FRANCIS… THE POPE WHO BLESSED ROME AND THE WORLD THAT DAY ON THE MORNING OF EASTER.”
He also expressed gratitude to the cardinals who elected him and offered a heartfelt greeting to the Diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, where he served as bishop for nearly a decade.
An American Pope for the First Time
Pope Leo XIV becomes the first American ever to ascend to the papacy. Born in Chicago on September 14, 1955, and raised in the suburb of Dalton, he felt called to the priesthood from an early age. According to his brother John, “He knew since first grade that he wanted to be a priest.”
Prevost’s path led him from high school seminary to Augustinian College at Villanova, and later to theological studies in Rome. He holds dual citizenship—American and Peruvian—and spent years as a missionary in Peru before becoming bishop of Chiclayo in 2014.
Colleagues describe him as humble and deeply human. Rev. Fidel Purisaca Vigil from Chiclayo recalled his calm leadership and joyful presence. Rev. John Lyndon, a former roommate during their time in Peru, praised Leo’s easygoing nature, fondness for singing, and even his pizza-making skills.
“He was someone you could laugh and talk with,” said Lyndon. “Every parish wanted to celebrate his birthday—his presence left a lasting mark.”
Balancing Reform and Continuity
Throughout his career, Pope Leo XIV has been closely aligned with Pope Francis’ progressive reforms. He supported Church blessings for same-sex couples, encouraged cultural sensitivity in pastoral care, and has spoken out on environmental issues, advocating for sustainable practices like installing solar panels and using electric vehicles.
He previously held senior Vatican roles, including President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America and Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, where he played a key role in the selection of bishops around the globe.
Despite not being seen as a frontrunner for the papacy, his election surprised even his own family. John Prevost recounted a lighthearted moment before the conclave when he jokingly told his brother to watch The Conclave movie for “research.”
“I didn’t believe it,” John admitted. “And neither did Rob—sorry, Pope Leo. We just didn’t think an American would be chosen.”
Mixed Reactions Back Home
While President Donald Trump congratulated the new pope on Truth Social, calling it “a great honor for our country,” many of his supporters voiced strong opposition. Far-right influencers labeled Leo XIV a “woke Marxist,” citing past remarks in which he criticized anti-immigration policies and expressed support for racial justice movements.
Prominent figures such as Mike Cernovich and Joe Mannarino resurfaced old statements, while MAGA commentator Vince Langman shared a 2015 tweet from Prevost criticizing Trump’s rhetoric.
Even before the conclave, former Trump advisor Steve Bannon warned that Prevost was “one of the most progressive” cardinals under consideration.
A Papacy Under Scrutiny
Despite the political noise, Pope Leo XIV’s election represents a historic turning point for the Catholic Church. As the first American pontiff, and one with a reputation for reform, he inherits both opportunity and scrutiny. How he steers the Church through the crosswinds of modernity, tradition, and global politics will define his papacy—and perhaps the future of Catholicism itself.
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