By: Ben TC Brooks |River Gee County Correspondent
Vatican City – Thursday, May 08, 2025 – In a historic event for the Roman Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost from the United States of America has been chosen as the 267th pope, adopting the name Pope Leo XIV.
His election by the College of Cardinals signifies a major milestone, as he becomes part of a limited group of U.S.-born popes. This choice is perceived as a reflection of the Church’s growing commitment to embracing diversity and enhancing global representation in its leadership.
Pope Leo XIV is expected to adopt a reform-oriented and pastoral style of leadership, prioritizing issues such as social justice, spiritual revitalization, and active engagement with pressing global matters such as poverty, migration, and climate change.
As white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, a large crowd of supporters and onlookers gathered in St. Peter’s Square, eagerly awaiting the announcement. Soon after, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first public blessing as the Supreme Pontiff.
This announcement has sparked reactions across the globe, particularly in Africa and Liberia, where the Catholic Church has been instrumental in improving education, healthcare, and humanitarian efforts, as well as in promoting peacebuilding initiatives.
About the New Pope
At 69 years old, New Pope Prevost, originally from Chicago, Illinois, brings extensive global experience. He has dedicated much of his career to mission work in South America and has served as a bishop in Peru. Most recently, he oversaw a significant Vatican office responsible for appointing bishops. He is expected to continue and expand upon the reforms initiated by Pope Francis.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita| Editor-In-Chief
