New pope! Cardinal Provost Becomes new catholic Leader
Robert Francis Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV on Thursday, marking a historic moment as the first American chosen to lead the Catholic Church. His election by cardinals from across the globe positions him at the helm of a faith shared by 1.4 billion people worldwide, following the passing of Pope Francis.
Crowds filled St Peter’s Square, erupting into cheers as the newly elected pope made his first appearance on the balcony of the basilica. With a calm yet joyful demeanour, he greeted the world with a message of unity and hope, expressing a desire for peace to reach all corners of the Earth. His words emphasised the importance of building bridges through dialogue and encounter, urging people everywhere to come together as one.
In his address, Pope Leo paid tribute to his predecessor, recalling Pope Francis’s final Easter blessing as a moment of quiet strength and deep faith. Speaking partly in Spanish, he acknowledged his years of service in Peru and reinforced his vision for a Church committed to openness, compassion, and mission. The response from the crowd was deeply emotional, with spontaneous applause and joyful celebration reflecting the historic weight of the moment.
Prevost, aged 69, had long been seen by some within the Church as a potential successor to Francis, particularly for his alignment with the former pope’s progressive outlook and focus on social justice. While not a household name among the Catholic faithful, his advocacy for the marginalised and his missionary background earned him respect among his peers. His past criticisms of anti-migrant policies, including those associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump, did not prevent the latter from congratulating him, calling the appointment a significant honour for the United States.
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The election itself remained cloaked in the traditional secrecy of the papal conclave, but the rapid conclusion — within two days — suggested a strong consensus among the voting cardinals. As the white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel and the bells of St Peter’s rang out, the atmosphere in Rome became electric. Pilgrims and tourists alike rushed to witness the announcement, chanting and waving flags in celebration. For many, it was a once-in-a-lifetime moment of spiritual and emotional significance.
Pope Leo XIV now steps into a role of immense responsibility, not only as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church but also as a moral voice in a world grappling with conflict and division. He inherits both the promise and the challenges left by Francis, including efforts to heal internal divisions within the Church and to address the lingering wounds caused by the sexual abuse crisis.
In the days ahead, Leo XIV is set to lead Mass for the cardinals, deliver his first Sunday prayer as pope, and meet with international media. His choice of the name Leo reflects a continuity with the Church’s social doctrine, with historical echoes of Leo XIII, a pope known for his defence of workers’ rights. As this new chapter unfolds, many Catholics and observers around the world are watching with hope that Leo XIV will carry forward a vision of faith that remains rooted in justice, dialogue, and compassion.
Content Credit: Ohidah Oluwaferanmi Favour
Image Credit:vanguardngr.com
