US Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected Pope Leo XIV Leading 1.4 Billion Catholics

Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, has been elected as the first American pope, drawing congratulations from global leaders including former U.S. President Donald Trump, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and others who see his papacy as a momentous and hopeful chapter for the Catholic Church worldwide. Pope Leo XIV has a personal history tied to St. Louis, where he trained as a priest, and is remembered by friends as humble and intelligent. Prior to his election, Prevost was active on social media, sometimes sharing content critical of President Trump's policies, especially on immigration, reflecting his concern for the issue. The election has been welcomed as an opportunity to build bridges between faiths, promote peace, and address global issues such as poverty and climate change. Leaders have expressed hope that his leadership will continue the path of his predecessor in supporting the oppressed and fostering dialogue. His papacy arrives at a time of global challenges, including ongoing conflicts, with widespread anticipation of his spiritual and humanitarian impact.