Thu May 08 17:42:16 UTC 2025: ## American Cardinal Elected First US Pope
**Vatican City, May 9, 2025** – In a historic election, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American to hold the papacy. The 69-year-old, previously Archbishop-Bishop emeritus of Chiclayo, Peru, was chosen following the death of Pope Francis.
Prevost’s extensive missionary work in Peru, coupled with his experience as prefect of the powerful Dicastery for Bishops, a key Vatican department, made him a strong contender. His reputation as a moderate and bridge-builder within the Church, combined with a strong understanding of canon law, appealed to a broad range of cardinals. Italian newspaper La Repubblica described him as “the least American of the Americans” due to his understated demeanor.
Prior to his election, Prevost served as head of the Dicastery for Bishops, a position entrusted to him by Pope Francis. This role provided him with significant insight into the inner workings of the Church and introduced him to key figures within the Vatican. He also heads the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
Before entering the Church hierarchy, Prevost studied mathematics, divinity, and canon law. He spent a decade as a missionary in Peru with the Augustinians, returning to the United States to serve as provincial prior before again returning to Peru in 2014.
In a statement following his election, Prevost emphasized the need for the Church to adapt to the modern world while maintaining its core message. He stated the importance of proclaiming the Gospel in ways relevant to contemporary audiences, including young people, the poor, and political leaders.
First Piper 