New Pope Elected in Vatican City
On Thursday, May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Prevost was announced as the new Pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He made his first appearance on the Vatican Balcony, marking a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church.
At 69 years old, Prevost becomes the 267th Pope and the first American to hold the position. His election came after the fourth round of voting by the cardinal electors, who gathered to select a successor following the death of Pope Francis.
Cardinals under 80 years old participated in the Conclave, which commenced on Wednesday. Pope Francis, who served as Pope since 2013, was 88 at the time of his passing, following the tenure of Pope Benedict XVI.
As is tradition, votes are incinerated after each round. Black smoke signifies that no decision has been reached, while white smoke indicates the election of a new Pope. On Thursday, around 6 PM local time, white smoke emerged, confirming Prevost’s election as Pope Leo XIV.
This event wraps up the Conclave process, with 133 electors achieving the required two-thirds majority for election. Historically, papal elections have varied widely in duration; the longest took three years, from 1268 to 1271. Recent elections, including that of Prevost, have typically concluded in four to eight voting rounds.
Prevost’s election breaks a longstanding tradition, as there has been considerable hesitation regarding the selection of an American Pope, largely due to the significant global influence associated with the United States.
