White smoke has been spotted! The new pope has been announced as Robert Prevost of the United States, making him the first American pontiff in history.
Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV
Robert Prevost will be known as Pope Leo XIV. The announcement follows the sighting of white smoke rising above the Sistine Chapel on the second day of the conclave, which signifies that the cardinals have elected a new pontiff.
Robert Prevost has built an impressive legacy within the Church. Born in Chicago, he spent his early days as a priest in Chicago before moving to Peru, where he served as a Peruvian missionary and archbishop. He also held the title of Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, which is charged with appointing new bishops worldwide.
Prevost reportedly maintained a close relationship with the late Pope Francis, who appointed him as leader of the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, in 2014. Francis made him a cardinal in 2023 and appointed him head of the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in the Vatican.