Newly elected Pope Leo waves from the balcony at Saint Peter's Basilica on Thursday.
Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Thursday evening as Cardinal Robert Prevost emerged as Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old Chicago native became the 267th pope and the first American ever to lead the Roman Catholic Church. With a calm yet powerful presence, he greeted the crowd with the words, “Peace be with you all.”
Pope Leo XIV: A Historic Milestone for the Catholic Church and Chicago
One in five American adults identify as Catholic, a figure that has remained consistent since 2014, according to Pew Research. In Chicago, that number rises to nearly one in three. Now, the Windy City celebrates a deeply personal connection to the Vatican—its native son has become Pope.
Chicago’s Native Son Becomes Pope
Chicago has become the talk of the global Catholic community. The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American to assume the papacy, has sparked joy and pride across the city and beyond.
Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, praised the new pope on X (formerly Twitter). “Millions of American Catholics and Christians will pray for his success,” he posted. “May God bless him!”
Midwestern Roots, Global Mission
Pope Leo’s journey began in the heart of the Midwest. Born and raised in Chicago, his early years shaped his values. Friends and colleagues describe him as grounded, humble, and deeply committed to service—not ambition.
“He’s never chased titles,” said Father Mark Francis, who studied alongside him in the 1970s. “He’s there to serve, not to rise.”
Francis also praised the pope’s respect for women in the Church—a value shared by many in their forward-looking Chicago parish.
A Quiet Leader with a Global View
Those who know Pope Leo personally say he’s not flashy. “He’s serious and dependable,” Francis added. “But he also has a great sense of humor.”
Rev. John Lydon, a longtime friend and fellow Villanova alum, recalled their time together in Peru. He emphasized the new pope’s global outlook.
“He’s not an American pope,” Lydon said. “He’s a pope who happens to be American.”
A Life of Service, Not Status
Peggy Wurtz, a childhood friend from Dolton, Illinois, remembers him as quiet, smart, and deeply spiritual. “He was pure,” she said. “Destined for this.”
His brother, John Prevost, echoed that view. “He’s never wanted power,” he said. “He just wanted to serve the poor.” John believes Pope Leo will mirror Pope Francis in championing the marginalized.
“He didn’t want to be a bishop or cardinal. But when called, he answered.”
Deep Ties to South America
Before his time in the Vatican, Pope Leo spent years as a missionary in South America. He lived simply and worked closely with communities in need. “I still consider myself a missionary,” he said in a recent Vatican News interview.
That dedication continued in Rome, where he led the powerful Dicastery for Bishops. He also served as president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Respected by Pope Francis
The late Pope Francis admired and trusted Prevost deeply. Vatican insiders say he was among the most respected of the American cardinals.
Though born in the U.S., Pope Leo was seen within the Vatican as the “least American” of them all—thanks to his global perspective and Augustinian values. He previously served as prior general of the Augustinian order, leading members worldwide for over a decade.
World Leaders React
President Joe Biden—America’s second Catholic president—welcomed the news warmly.
“It pleases me a great deal,” Biden said. “He’ll keep moving the Church in a more inclusive direction.”
Canadian leaders also offered their blessings. Prime Minister Mark Carney called it a “historic day,” expressing hope for a pontificate marked by compassion and dignity. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre noted the special significance for North American Catholics, hoping Pope Leo would help renew faith across the continent.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson called Pope Leo XIV’s election “one of the biggest moments in the modern history of our city.” In a statement, he highlighted the Pope’s advocacy for workers and the poor.
French President Emmanuel Macron described the election as a “historic moment for Catholics worldwide.” He extended a message of fraternity to Pope Leo XIV and believers across the globe.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also posted her congratulations on X. She recognized Pope Leo XIV not only as a spiritual leader but also as head of state of Vatican City. She pledged cooperation in promoting peace and prosperity worldwide.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the Pope with hopes for deeper ties between Israel and the Holy See. He spoke of building bridges among all religions and fostering interfaith harmony.
Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko praised the growing bond between Belarus and the Vatican. He invited Pope Leo to visit his country and work together on solving modern global issues.
Support from the United Nations
United Nations Secretary General António Guterres issued a heartfelt message. He noted the Pope’s arrival during a time of global unrest and humanitarian challenges. Guterres expressed eagerness to work with Leo XIV in promoting peace, dignity, and justice for all.
Tradition Meets New Leadership
As the Swiss Guard stood watch in their iconic gold-and-blue uniforms, a new era began at the Vatican. Pope Leo XIV now carries the weight of nearly two millennia of tradition on his shoulders.
But with humility, wisdom, and a heart for the poor, he’s ready to lead.
His mission? A Church that listens, serves, and welcomes all.
