Vatican City, May 8, 2025 —

Habemus Papam. The wait is over. At exactly 6:08 p.m. this Thursday evening, thick white smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that a new pope had been elected. Seventeen days after the death of Pope Francis, and less than 24 hours after the conclave began, the 133 cardinal-electors have chosen the 267th successor to Saint Peter: American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who will take the name Pope Leo XIV.

At 7:13 p.m., from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti pronounced the traditional Latin formula: “Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam.” Moments later, the newly elected pope appeared, greeting a jubilant crowd with the simple words: “Peace be with you.” I am a son of Saint Augustine, an Augustinian. He said, “With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop.” So may we all walk together towards that homeland that God has prepared for us.

A Life Shaped by Mission

Born in Chicago on September 14, 1955, and once a missionary in Peru — where he also acquired citizenship — Pope Leo XIV is an Augustinian with a deeply international pastoral journey. Prior to his election, he served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, one of the most influential positions in the Roman Curia. Deeply shaped by his on-the-ground experiences and intercultural dialogue, Leo XIV arrives with a pastoral vision rooted in listening, accompaniment, and compassion.

His swift election — just four rounds of voting over two days — surprised many observers, especially given the geographical and ideological diversity within the College of Cardinals. But, as often in Church history, speculation gives way to the quiet movement of the Holy Spirit.

A Listening Church

In his first public remarks, Pope Leo XIV shared his vision of a synodal Church — one that “walks together,” engages in dialogue, discerns, and listens. He emphasized the importance of fraternity and unity in a world fractured by war, inequality, and division.

He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, describing him as a man of “humble service and prophetic courage.” Francis — the first Latin American and first Jesuit pope — will long be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the poor and the marginalized.

A Historic Succession

Leo XIV follows a line of popes who each brought a unique spirit to the papacy: Benedict XVI, the reserved theologian and “humble laborer in the vineyard of the Lord”; John Paul II, the Polish pope who transformed the Church during his 26-year reign; and Francis, the pope of Gospel simplicity and bold outreach.

With the election of the first American pope, the Catholic Church marks a symbolic turning point — one that reflects its global identity and increasing attentiveness to the voices from the South and the margins of society.

A Vast Mission Ahead

Pope Leo XIV inherits a world beset by crisis: ongoing wars, migration emergencies, growing poverty, and spiritual disorientation. In this challenging landscape, he is called to be a pastor, a witness, and a bridge-builder. His election sounds as a call to renewal, to hope, and to a Church steadfast in the Gospel and open to all.

Tonight, the bells of Rome — and of the world — ring out in celebration. A new chapter begins for the universal Church. Leo XIV now stands as the face and voice of a world searching for peace, unity, and meaning.

By Dominic Wabwireh