The conclave has spoken, and the Catholic Church now has a new Pope. After hours of intense deliberation, the 133 cardinals have reached a consensus that has culminated in the election of Robert Prevost, who will assume the papacy under the name Leo XIV. The white smoke, which was visible from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel today at 6:07 p.m., has confirmed the desired start of this new stage.
Pope Leo XIV is a man of great experience. Born in Chicago, with Franco-Italian and Spanish origins, his figure has been key in the administration of Francis's pontificate.
At 69 years old, his ecclesiastical career has been marked by a deep commitment to Latin America, especially with Peru, where he was the bishop of Chiclayo. This international profile has earned him a broad trajectory in the Vatican curia, where he has advised Pope Francis on multiple occasions.
Leo XIV sends a message of peace and unity from St. Peter's Square
From the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, Leo XIV has spoken his first words as Pope. "Peace be with you," were his first and firm greetings to the faithful. A direct message of hope and reconciliation.
Next, Leo XIV explained that the peace he offers comes directly from Jesus Christ and God. "This is the Peace of Jesus Christ, it comes from God, who loves us all," he added, emphasizing the divine love that unites humanity.
In his words, Leo XIV also referenced Pope Francis. He fondly remembered his voice, "that weak voice" that blessed Rome at Easter. "We keep our ears, that weak voice," he expressed, showing deep respect for Francis's legacy.
The new Pope insisted that the Church must move forward "without fear," guided by the hand of God and encouraged everyone to be "disciples of Christ." The need to help build "bridges, through dialogue" was another key point of his message. This call for unity was undoubtedly one of the most emotional parts of his speech.
A special greeting to Peru and a commitment to a synodal Church
Leo XIV dedicated a very special moment to the diocese of Chiclayo, in Peru. In Spanish, he expressed a warm greeting to the parishioners of the region. "Where a faithful people have given so much to continue being the church of Jesus Christ," he stated, words that reflect his affection for the community that supported him so much in Peru.
Additionally, the new Pope reaffirmed his commitment to a synodal Church. "We want to be a synodal church, that walks and always seeks peace and charity," he declared, echoing the ideals promoted by Francis. For Leo XIV, the Church must walk together, with the same goals and values, always in search of the well-being of humanity.
At the conclusion of his speech, the Pope received cheers from the more than 40,000 faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square. The emotion was palpable, and everyone shared the hope of a papacy full of peace, unity, and solidarity.
With these first words, Leo XIV made it clear that his papacy will be a path marked by respect for Francis's legacy. But it will also be a new stage, guided by the light of Christ and universal love.