Becomes First U.S. Pontiff, Set to Lead 1.4 Billion Catholics Worldwide
VATICAN CITY — In a historic decision, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States has been elected the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old Chicago native becomes the first American ever to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
Prevost was elected after just two days of conclave, a swift selection that mirrors the timelines of his immediate predecessors, Popes Francis and Benedict XVI. The rapid consensus among the College of Cardinals suggests Prevost left a strong impression during the secretive deliberations.
As the world awaits his first public appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Catholics across the globe prepare to welcome a new spiritual leader at a pivotal moment in the Church’s history.
This is a developing story. More updates to follow.
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