Robert Francis Prevost Now Pope Leo XIV

Robert Francis Prevost, has been elected as the new Pope, becoming the 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. White smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling the cardinals had reached their decision after four rounds of voting.

The new Pope takes the papal name Leo XIV and succeeds Pope Francis. He is the first Pope from United States of America, and is widely believed to be one who will continue in the tradition of his predecessor.

His first words to the large gathering was “Peace Be With All of You”. His election comes at a time when the Church celebrates its Jubilee of Hope, and where the world faces great uncertainty and instability in light of massive geopolitical shifts which have led to trade wars, armed conflicts and deterioration basic human rights and democratic principles.

Catholic faithful around the world have welcomed the announcement, gathering in St. Peter’s Square and at churches globally to celebrate this historic moment.

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