World Leaders Hail Election of First American Pope, Hopes for Unity and Peace.
The Catholic Church has entered a new era with the election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome and the first American Pope in history. The 69-year-old Augustinian was elected on Thursday after a two-day conclave, succeeding Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025.
The announcement was made by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti, who declared to the thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, “I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope!” Moments later, the newly elected pontiff emerged on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, greeting the world with his first words:
“Peace be with all of you.”
In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV invoked the message of the risen Christ, calling for unity and faith in the Gospel. “Dearest brothers and sisters, this was the first greeting of the risen Christ, the good shepherd who gave His life for the flock of God,” he said. “I, too, would like this greeting of peace to enter your hearts, to reach your families and all people, wherever they are.”
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Prevost joined the Order of St. Augustine and was ordained a priest on June 19, 1982, by Archbishop Jean Jadot. His early years were marked by missionary work in Peru, where he developed a deep connection with the Latin American faithful.
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His leadership within the Church grew steadily—he served two terms as head of the Augustinians before Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru, in 2015. His rise continued in Rome, where he became Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
In September 2023, Pope Francis elevated him to Cardinal, assigning him the titular church of Saint Monica. His election as Pope now marks a historic shift, breaking centuries of tradition as the first pontiff from the United States.
Global Leaders React with Hope and Praise
The historic election drew immediate reactions from world leaders, many expressing optimism for his papacy’s focus on unity, peace, and human dignity.
- U.S. President Donald Trump called the appointment a “great honor for America” and said he looked forward to meeting the new Pope, describing it as a “very meaningful moment.”
- Nigerian President Bola Tinubu praised the election as the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church, emphasizing its values of love, humanity, and charity. He prayed for Pope Leo XIV’s wisdom and health in leading the faithful.
- Colombian President Gustavo Petro voiced hope that the new Pope would be a strong advocate for migrants, particularly Latin Americans facing hardships in the U.S. “It’s time for them to organize,” he said.
- Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the opportunity to strengthen ties between Israel and the Vatican, expressing hope for deeper interfaith dialogue.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin noted the shared Christian values between Russia and the Holy See, affirming his commitment to continued cooperation.
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen wished the Pope a tenure marked by wisdom and peace, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted his role as a spiritual guide in challenging times.
Pope Leo XIV steps into his role at a time of global tensions, economic strife, and religious divisions. His background as a missionary and administrator positions him as a bridge between the Americas, Europe, and the developing world.
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His election has already inspired millions, particularly in the U.S. and Latin America, where Catholics see his papacy as a sign of the Church’s evolving global identity.
World Leaders Hail Election of First American Pope, Hopes for Unity and Peace.
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