LONDON, May 9 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- Robert Prevost, a 69-year-old cardinal from Chicago, was elected on Thursday as the new pope -- the first American ever to ascend to the papacy.
According to Anadolu Ajansi (AA), he will take the name Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time the papal name Leo has been used since the 19th century.
The newly elected pontiff appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first address as pope.
Prevost’s election reflects his American roots and his strong ties to Latin America, particularly Peru, where he served for many years as a missionary before becoming an archbishop.
He holds dual American and Peruvian nationality and is remembered for his commitment to marginalised communities and for fostering unity within the local church.
“Together we must try to find out how to be a church that builds bridges, establishes dialogue, and is open to receiving everybody,” he told the crowd.
Born in Chicago in 1955, Prevost was ordained as a priest in 1982 after serving as an altar boy in his youth. A member of the Augustinian Order, he moved to Peru at the age of 30 on a mission for the order.
His dedication led to his appointment as Bishop of Chicago by Pope Francis a year into Francis’ pontificate.
With 80 per cent of the cardinals in the conclave appointed by Francis, his election is seen as a vote for continuity, particularly along the reformist path set by the former pope.
Leo XIV’s Latin American ties and pastoral focus are viewed as a continuation of Francis’ legacy.
-- BERNAMA-ANADOLU
