Pope Leo XIV elected as first US-born pope, sparking celebrations around the world
In a stunning decision, the Catholic College of Cardinals elected Pope Leo XIV, the first pope born in the U.S., leading to celebrations worldwide.
In a stunning decision, the Catholic College of Cardinals elected Pope Leo XIV, the first pope born in the U.S., leading to celebrations worldwide.
In a stunning decision, the Catholic College of Cardinals elected Pope Leo XIV, the first pope born in the U.S., leading to celebrations worldwide.
In a stunning decision Thursday, the Catholic College of Cardinals elected Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope.
The announcement led to celebrations worldwide, including in the nation's capital.
At the , gold and white banners mirroring the Vatican flag's colors adorned the doors, replacing the black banners that mourned the late Pope Francis.
An American flag also hung from the church's bell tower, a sight usually reserved for patriotic holidays.
The Basilica is offering its normal worship schedule on Friday while adding special prayers for Pope Leo.
Across the world, Pope Leo waved to crowds in Saint Peter's Square shortly after his election, breaking a long-standing taboo that an American pope would never be elected because of the United States' existing superpower status.
Born Robert Prevost in Chicago, Pope Leo also spent many years in Peru, maintaining a low public profile. He remains well-known among peers and by the late Pope Francis.
His election drew well-wishes from leaders in Washington.
"What greater honor could there be," President Donald Trump said shortly after the announcement. "We're a little bit surprised but very happy. It's just a great, absolutely great honor."
Lawmakers also weighed in.
"It may help the Church, I think, move more into the modern era and, I think, help it survive," Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Arizona, said. "It is going through tough times."
"Pope Leo XIV will very much represent in the United States for many Americans, even for those who aren't Catholic," Rep. Brendan Boyle, D-Pennsylvania, said.
With his election, Pope Leo will likely offer his views on politics, including the U.S.
He criticized the Trump administration in February, criticizing Vice President JD Vance's views on immigration.
Pope Leo also to the administration's deportations to El Salvador.
Experts suggest his election could send a message to the U.S. Church, which has often faced divisions between conservatives and progressives.