Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV, First North American Pope

The Catholic Church has elected Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time a North American has held the position in the church's 2,000-year history. The election took place at the Vatican, where Cardinal Prevost emerged onto the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica after the conclave. Pope Leo XIV, a 69-year-old Chicago-born Augustinian missionary who ministered in Peru, signaled a potential return to traditional practices by wearing the red cape, unlike his predecessor. His initial message, "Peace be with you," delivered in Italian and Spanish, emphasized dialogue and missionary work. World leaders have already extended their congratulations, with many expressing hope for his papacy. Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Mass in the Sistine Chapel, following in the footsteps of Pope Francis. His early appointments include a Mass with cardinals, delivering a Sunday blessing, and holding an audience with the media.