May 8, 2025: Leo XIV Becomes First American Pope
Update News Today,May 9,2025,12:3 am ET
• First American Pope: Cardinal Robert Prevost has made history as the first U.S.-born pontiff, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He delivered his first public address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, greeting tens of thousands with a message of peace and a tribute to his predecessor, the late Pope Francis.
• About Pope Leo XIV: At 69 years old, Leo XIV hails from Chicago and brings a wealth of global experience to the role. He served as a missionary in South America for many years and holds dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship. Before his election, he headed the Vatican’s influential office overseeing bishop appointments. Observers expect him to continue and strengthen the reforms initiated by Pope Francis.
• Global Response: Leaders around the world have welcomed Pope Leo XIV’s election with messages of congratulations and optimism. U.S. President Donald Trump called the moment "a great honor for the nation" and expressed interest in collaborating with the Vatican on global challenges.
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Live Coverage Concludes: Our live reporting on Pope Leo XIV has ended for the day. You can still browse key updates and highlights below.
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In Photos: A visual journey of Pope Leo XIV’s path to the papacy—from his early days in Chicago to the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Certainly! Here's a streamlined and rewritten version of the article for clarity, flow, and professionalism, while retaining the key facts and tone:
May 8, 2025: Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV, First U.S.-Born Pontiff
By Christian Edwards, Lauren Kent, Olivia Kemp, Billy Stockwell, Maureen Chowdhury, Elise Hammond, and Antoinette Radford | CNN
VATICAN CITY – In a historic first, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago native, was elected pope on Thursday, becoming the first U.S.-born leader of the Roman Catholic Church. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet tens of thousands of faithful, offering a message of peace and honoring his predecessor, the late Pope Francis.
A Global Leader with American Roots
Born and raised in the Midwest, Pope Leo XIV brings decades of international pastoral experience to the papacy. He spent much of his ministry as a missionary in Peru, where he also served as a bishop. Holding dual U.S. and Peruvian citizenship, he most recently led the powerful Vatican Dicastery for Bishops, playing a key role in global ecclesiastical appointments. His leadership reflects a commitment to the ongoing reforms initiated under Pope Francis.
Worldwide Reaction
The election of Pope Leo XIV sparked a wave of congratulations from religious leaders and heads of state. U.S. President Donald Trump hailed the moment as “a great honor for our country” and expressed hope for collaboration on pressing global issues.
The Man Behind the Papacy
Friends and colleagues describe Pope Leo as humble, focused, and service-oriented. “He’s not a showboat kind of person,” said Father Mark Francis, a longtime friend and fellow Chicagoan. Others note his quiet intelligence, compassion for the poor, and deep commitment to mission over ambition.
His brother, John Prevost, echoed this sentiment, saying, “He never sought power—he was always a servant. I think he’ll follow in Francis’ footsteps, advocating for the underprivileged and speaking truth with compassion.”
A Life of Service
Photos and stories from Pope Leo’s past show a man deeply rooted in faith and community. From celebrating Mass at St. Jude Parish in Illinois to greeting Pope John Paul II, his journey has been marked by humility and leadership. He served as Prior General of the Augustinian Order for over a decade and is known for his commitment to social justice and pastoral care.
Vision for the Church
Though he upholds church tradition, Leo XIV has emphasized the importance of evolving perspectives on leadership and service. Speaking in 2023, he said that ordaining women might not resolve institutional issues, but acknowledged the growing influence of women in church roles. “Perhaps we need a new understanding of authority—one rooted in service,” he said during a Vatican synod.
Looking Ahead
As the 267th pope, Pope Leo XIV is expected to build upon the path laid by Pope Francis—prioritizing reform, inclusivity, and a Church that listens more closely to the voices of the global faithful.
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