A sea of joyful worshippers filled St. Peter’s Square on Thursday evening as Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69, emerged on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as the new leader of the Catholic Church. Taking the name Pope Leo XIV, he greeted the world for the first time with a powerful and simple message: “Peace be with you.”
His appearance was met with thunderous applause and cheers, marking a historic moment as he succeeds the late Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this year after years of frail health. The new Pope, originally from the United States but long based in Peru, is the first American-born Pope and a member of the Order of St. Augustine.
In his first address, Pope Leo XIV paid heartfelt tribute to Pope Francis, calling him a “brave voice” and thanking him for his leadership, especially his message of peace and compassion. He praised the cardinals for placing their trust in him and promised to lead with humility and love.
“God loves us, all of us, without limit,” he said in his speech, delivered in both Italian and Spanish. “Evil will not prevail. We are in the hands of God.”
Quoting St. Augustine, he reminded the crowd: “With you, I am a Christian. For you, I am a bishop.” He added that he hoped to walk together with all believers as a Church of peace, dialogue, and unity.
Thousands stood silently, many with tears in their eyes, as the Pope led a prayer for global peace, the Church, and the intercession of the Virgin Mary. He emphasized the need to be a “missionary Church”, open to everyone and especially close to those who suffer.
He also sent special greetings to his former diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, thanking the people for their faith and support during his time as bishop there. His connection to Latin America is expected to continue shaping his outlook and approach as Pope.
The new pontiff spoke with a warm and fatherly tone, urging the faithful to build bridges through dialogue and love, especially in a divided world. “The world needs light. Humanity needs Christ,” he said. “Let us walk together, always seeking peace.”
Pope Leo XIV’s election comes at a time of deep global uncertainty, with conflicts, economic challenges, and moral debates facing the Church and society at large. His message of unity and compassion struck a chord with many, both within and outside the Catholic faith.
The Pope ended his speech with the Hail Mary, inviting all present—and those watching on TV and online—to join him in prayer for a Church that stands firm in love and mercy.
This historic moment sets the tone for what many hope will be a papacy of healing, humility, and renewed faith. The world now watches to see how Pope Leo XIV will lead the Church through its next chapter.
