White Smoke Rises: Robert Francis Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV, the First American Pontiff
A plume of white smoke rose above the Vatican on Thursday evening, signaling a momentous event in the Catholic world: the election of a new pope. At 69 years old, American-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost emerged as the 267th pontiff, choosing the name Leo XIV — the first pope to take that name in over a century.
As crowds erupted with joy in St. Peter’s Square, not everyone shared the sentiment. While Catholics around the globe celebrated this historic election, some political factions, particularly MAGA-aligned voices in the U.S., voiced sharp criticism online.
A Historic Election and a Powerful Name
Just two days after cardinals convened in the Sistine Chapel for the sacred conclave, the world was introduced to Pope Leo XIV. The name Leo carries weight — most notably referencing Pope Leo the Great, who famously confronted Attila the Hun in the 5th century and is revered as a theological reformer.
“The choice of name often reflects a pope’s vision,” said Dennis Doyle, theologian and professor emeritus at the University of Dayton. “It signals continuity or change. Leo suggests strength, intellect, and courage in the face of worldly power.”
CBS contributor Candida Moss echoed that sentiment: “Choosing Leo could mean he sees himself as a spiritual and intellectual defender in turbulent times.”
A Message of Peace from the Balcony
Appearing on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV opened his first papal address with a heartfelt benediction: “Peace be with you.”
He continued, “This was the first greeting of the risen Christ — the good shepherd who gave his life for God’s flock. I hope this peace reaches your hearts, your families, and all corners of the world.”
Leo paid tribute to Pope Francis, whose legacy of humility and compassion he vowed to uphold. He also expressed gratitude to his fellow cardinals and offered a special greeting to the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, where he served as bishop for nearly a decade.
From Chicago to the Vatican
Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Prevost grew up in the suburb of Dalton in a deeply Catholic, immigrant-rooted family. “He knew as early as first grade he wanted to be a priest,” said his brother John in an interview with NBC. “It wasn’t a question of if, but how.”
He joined the Augustinian order and followed a rigorous path through seminary, Villanova University, and theological training in Rome. He eventually embarked on a long mission in Peru — a period that deeply shaped his pastoral philosophy.
Holding dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru, Leo XIV was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo in 2014. Described as calm, joyful, and humble, he became a beloved leader. “He kept his sense of humor, even in tough times,” said Rev. Fidel Purisaca Vigil.
His former roommate, Rev. John Lyndon, recalled their time in Peru fondly: “He had a beautiful singing voice and made amazing pizza — a rare treat in Peru back then. People just loved him.”
The Unexpected Victory
Leo XIV’s election surprised many — including the new pope himself. “He didn’t think he’d win,” said his brother John. “There were more prominent candidates. But I had a feeling.”
Inside the Vatican, Cardinal Prevost had held high-ranking positions, including Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He was also a vocal advocate for Pope Francis’ reforms, particularly around social justice, environmental action, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
A Divisive Reaction
President Donald Trump extended congratulations on Truth Social: “What a great honor for our country — an American Pope! I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment.”
Yet online, some MAGA supporters exploded in outrage.
Far-right pundits accused the new pope of being “woke,” citing his past criticisms of Trump-era immigration policies and his support for same-sex blessings. Mike Cernovich labeled him a “globalist” and predicted a liberal agenda. Influencer Vince Langman resurfaced a 2015 tweet where Prevost criticized Trump, calling Leo a “WOKE Never Trumper liberal.”
One commenter went as far as branding him “worse than Francis,” while others accused him of being soft on borders and sympathetic to progressive causes.
Despite the online backlash, Pope Leo XIV remains focused on his mission. He has championed environmental responsibility, diversity within the Church, and a global view grounded in compassion. “This is a pope who listens,” said Rev. Lyndon. “He leads with humility — and that’s what the world needs right now.”
