In a moment that captivated the world, Cardinal Robert Prevost made his highly anticipated debut as Pope Leo XIV on the grand balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Addressing a sea of eager onlookers, he delivered a powerful message of peace, unity, and the continuation of Pope Francis’ legacy. His words resonated deeply with those in the crowd, leaving an indelible mark as his voice echoed through the historic square.
Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural speech began with a heartfelt greeting: “Peace be with all of you,” emphasizing its profound, universal importance. He described this peace as a “disarming peace” rooted in humility and perseverance, expressing his hope that it would touch individuals and families across the globe.
Reflecting on the legacy of Pope Francis, he said, “The Pope who blessed Rome, gave his blessing to the world, to the entire world, that Easter morning. Allow me to follow up on that same blessing: God loves us, God loves you all, and evil will not prevail!”
In his address, Pope Leo XIV portrayed Christ as a light that continues to guide the world, urging the faithful to move forward fearlessly and united in faith. He underscored the Church’s mission to serve those in need and called on Christians to build bridges through communication and shared action.
He also took a moment to thank his fellow cardinals for their trust, express gratitude to his former diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, and quote Saint Augustine: “With you I am a Christian and for you I am a bishop.” His words reflected his hope for a Church that is missionary, open, and deeply compassionate toward those who suffer.
In a powerful call to action, Leo XIV invited the faithful to join him in prayer for peace and guidance as he begins his papacy, announcing a special day of Supplication to Our Lady of Pompeii.
The speech quickly sparked an outpouring of responses online. One viewer remarked, “Goosebumps,” while another shared, “His words brought actual chills… peace and unity are exactly what our world needs right now. I have hope in this new chapter for the Church.”
The pope’s powerful address resonated with many viewers, sparking a range of reactions, some with broader political implications. One viewer, referring to U.S. President Donald Trump, commented, “And sent a message to Trump! ✝️” Another echoed, “He’s talking to you, Donnie!” suggesting that the pope’s call for peace and unity had a wider political context.
Humorous comments also emerged, particularly in reference to Trump’s well-known practice of firing individuals. One viewer quipped about how long it might take for Trump to try to “fire” the pope, adding a lighthearted twist to the conversation.
The pope’s emphasis on “building bridges” was seen as a direct contrast to Trump’s previous remarks about building walls, with many highlighting the sharp divergence in their principles. However, not all reactions were entirely positive. One person expressed concern that the pope’s address sounded more progressive than expected, hoping he would adhere to traditional Church teachings.
Some took note of the pope’s American roots, noting that despite being born in the United States, he now serves the global Church. Another remarked that considering the historic nature of his election, it would have been significant for the pope to mention his homeland.
The historic nature of the moment did not go unnoticed by former President Donald Trump, who responded with a message on the official White House X page. He congratulated Prevost on his election, calling it “a Great Honor for our Country” to see an American chosen as pope. “I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!” Trump added, highlighting the momentous nature of the occasion.
Before ascending to the papacy, Pope Leo XIV had already made waves in American politics with his outspoken views. In February 2025, he took to his personal X account to publicly challenge U.S. Senator JD Vance’s perspective, stating, “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.”
This statement, emphasizing the inclusiveness of Christian compassion, quickly gained traction online. His message was widely shared and linked to an article in the National Catholic Reporter, further amplifying his commitment to fostering a love that transcends boundaries and embraces all people equally. The post marked a significant moment in his public voice, showing a blend of spiritual leadership and social commentary long before his election as pope.
Following the historic conclave that followed the passing of Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV took the stage to deliver his first speech as the new pontiff. The Vatican announced his election on the evening of May 8, just one day after the 133 cardinals had gathered to begin their deliberations. Pope Francis, who had shepherded the Church through a transformative decade of renewal, had recently passed away, and the cardinals, many of whom had been personally chosen by Francis, gathered in quiet contemplation to select the next spiritual leader of the 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.
The air in St. Peter’s Square was thick with emotion and anticipation as millions of faithful waited for the signal of the papacy’s new direction. The moment came when the iconic white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the conclave’s decision. Moments later, the Church proclaimed in unison, “Habemus Papam”—We have a Pope—echoing from the grand balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to confirm the election of Pope Leo XIV, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Church.
Pope Leo XIV, the 267th pope, has made history as the first American to ascend to the papacy at the age of 69. Born in Chicago, Illinois, his life is a blend of deep pastoral experience and a global perspective. Before his election, he spent ten years working as a missionary in Trujillo, Peru, where he deeply connected with local communities. He later served as the bishop of Chiclayo from 2014 until 2023, leading the diocese with compassion and vision.
Pope Leo XIV’s extensive experience within the Vatican included overseeing a key ministry responsible for appointing bishops, playing a significant role in Pope Francis’ broader reform campaign. His leadership in this area was seen as a pivotal part of the Church’s modernization efforts, and it is expected that his papacy will carry forward this same inclusive, revitalizing vision. As the first American pope, he brings a unique blend of cultural insight and commitment to global unity, positioning the Church for an era of continued renewal and outreach.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy, renowned for his exceptional diplomatic acumen, and Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, beloved for his humility and deep connection with the faithful, were among the prominent figures once considered to be front-runners in the papal race. Their names circulated widely during the conclave, with many predicting they could be the next leaders of the Catholic Church due to their leadership qualities and global appeal. However, in a surprising turn of events, it was Cardinal Robert Prevost who emerged as the chosen one, marking a new chapter in the Church’s history.
The election of Pope Leo XIV marks the dawn of a new era for the Church, bringing with it a wave of hope rooted in compassion, faith, and solidarity. For millions around the world, this shift offers a renewed sense of optimism, with expectations that the pope’s leadership will embody these core values.
Prior to the iconic moment when white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, signaling the Church’s decision, the outcome of the conclave seemed uncertain. Cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel on May 7, beginning the conclave that would determine the next pope. As the first round of voting concluded, black smoke billowed from the chapel’s chimney around 9:00 p.m., signaling that no decision had been reached. This moment sparked a wave of reactions from people across the globe, as they anxiously awaited the result and the next chapter in the Church’s history.
Vatican News reported that the conclave ended without the election of a pope after the first round of voting. Around 45,000 people had gathered in St. Peter’s Square, eagerly awaiting an announcement after 7:00 p.m. However, the outcome remained uncertain, and the announcement didn’t come until nearly two hours later.
As black smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, signaling no decision had been made, the crowd began to disperse. Among the disappointed were tourists who had hoped to witness a historic moment, as well as locals who had arrived after work, promising to return the next day. Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania stood with the faithful in the square, offering a calm perspective. “Our role here is to pray and to join with other Christians, other Catholics, to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the whole process,” he shared. He emphasized that the origin of the pope, whether from Africa, Asia, or America, was secondary. What the Church needed, he said, was “a holy Pope” who would be a true spiritual guide for the Church.
Public reactions online were diverse, ranging from frustration to anticipation. One commenter expressed skepticism about the secrecy of the conclave, writing, “Swearing secrecy is not a good thing. This should be open. Secrets only leave room for deception.” Others were more resigned, with one stating, “It is not worthy [sic] one to discuss with. Yet another election with no use.”
Some questioned the process itself. “I think these people are voting for themselves,” one remarked, while another asked, “Took so long?” There were also those who worried that the process could stretch on for months before a new pope was chosen. One user reflected on Pope Francis’s legacy and pondered whether the next pope would be just as remarkable.
Amid the uncertainty, others offered prayers, hoping for divine guidance and a pope who truly cared for the people. Many expressed a mix of sadness at Pope Francis’s departure and hope for the future, eagerly awaiting the day when the new pope would be announced.
As the cardinals prepared for the following day’s procedures, one observer wished them luck and accepted the expected outcome of the first ballot.
While the public eagerly anticipated the conclave’s result, church authorities and scholars familiar with the process noted that inside the Sistine Chapel, things unfolded according to established patterns. The first poll was anticipated to be delayed for several reasons, according to Kurt Martens, a professor of canon law at The Catholic University.
Martens pointed to the extended homily by Cardinal Cantalamessa, known for his lengthy sermons, as a factor that delayed proceedings. He also mentioned the drawn-out oath-taking process, which “took forever as they entered into conclave,” much longer than the previous occasion. Additionally, Martens explained that the pace of the proceedings was slowed due to the age of many of the participants, noting, “It’s not like you have 20-year-olds running up to the altar, so that takes time.”
He also highlighted procedural necessities, such as selecting revisers to oversee the scrutineers’ work. “It’s a lengthy process,” he said, adding with a smile, “So be patient. And extend your airtime a little longer.”
While the first round of voting rarely produces a pope, it still serves a vital purpose. Bishop Robert Barron, founder of Word on Fire, emphasized that the first vote provides a useful indication of the conclave’s direction, even though it is “close to no chance” that a pope will be chosen at this stage. He called it “an important one, almost certainly indecisive,” but said it provides insight into where the cardinals stand.
Jesuit priest and America Media editor-in-chief, Reverend Sam Sawyer, underscored the importance of the conclave’s secrecy, which shields the cardinals from outside influence. “It gives them the freedom to vote according to their conscience for the man they believe is best suited to be pope,” he explained. It also fosters candid conversations, allowing the electors to be “really frank with each other.”
Sawyer also pointed to the historical significance of maintaining confidentiality, noting that in the past, it protected the conclave from political pressures and the influence of powerful families attempting to control the papacy.
The conclave’s meticulous process further strengthens its integrity. Cardinal electors are given ballots marked with the Latin phrase “Eligo in Summum Pontificem” (I elect as Supreme Pontiff). Each cardinal writes the name of their chosen candidate, swears an oath, folds the ballot, and places it in a chalice at the altar.
If a cardinal is unable to approach the altar, scrutineers deposit their vote on their behalf. Infirm cardinals are supported by three selected infirmarii, who retrieve the ballot from their apartments, returning it under strict procedural safeguards.
Once all votes are cast, scrutineers read out each name and verify the total. The ballots are then burned in a cast-iron stove. If no pope is chosen, chemicals added to the fire produce black smoke, but if a pope is selected, white smoke billows from the chimney.
To be elected pope, a candidate must secure a two-thirds majority—at least 89 votes from the 133 electors. Up to four ballots are cast each day, with planned breaks for prayer and reflection in case no decision is reached after several rounds.
Only the two front-runners are still eligible after 21 inconclusive votes, but they are unable to cast their own ballots and the two-thirds requirement is still in effect.
