American Cardinal Robert Prevost elected pope, takes name Leo XIV

An American has been chosen as pope for the first time in history. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost will lead the Roman Catholic Church. He is the 267th pope, and has taken the papal name Pope Leo the 14th. 

The new pontiff is 69 years old and was born in Chicago. He served as a bishop in Peru, and became cardinal in 2023. He is known to have earned the deep trust of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who died last month. And he is recognized for his dedication to helping the poor and supporting immigrants. 

The decision came after 133 cardinals from around the world reached a consensus on the second day at the conclave. White smoke billowed from a chimney on the Sistine Chapel in the late afternoon to signal a new pope had been chosen. US President Donald Trump welcomed the news, and added that he looks forward to meeting Pope Leo.