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Pope Leo XIV Elected as First American Pontiff, Promises Commitment to Social Justice and Climate Action

Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected Pope Leo XIV, emphasizing peace, social issues, and a commitment to climate action.

Slide 62
Stunning: An American Pope
The American Spectator

The American Spectator

Overview

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Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first U.S.-born pope on May 8, 2025. His election sparked celebrations in Chicago, where family members highlighted his focus on social justice and climate action. Leo's inaugural address stressed peace and a commitment to the marginalized, continuing Pope Francis' legacy. Previously outspoken on climate issues, Pope Leo XIV aims to engage with global leaders, including Donald Trump, to foster dialogue. Amid fanfare in St. Peter's Square, tens of thousands celebrated the moment, emphasizing the historical significance and humor surrounding this unique papacy.

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Analysis

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  • Cardinal Robert Prevost, known as Pope Leo XIV, marks the first American pope, signifying a break from the traditional European papacy, fueled by his dual citizenship and long tenure as a bishop in Peru, reflecting a connection to diverse global Catholicism.
  • His papacy aims to continue Pope Francis's focus on social justice and inclusivity, highlighting the need for a missionary church that serves the marginalized, as demonstrated in his first Mass where he addressed cardinals in multiple languages and echoed Francis's teachings.
  • As the first pope from the United States, Leo XIV inherits a delicate balance, fostering unity amid the polarized U.S. Church while promoting dialogue and collaboration in a church that serves the needs around the world.

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Read Pope Leo XIV's first homily as pope
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From the Windy City to the Chair of St. Peter
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Pope Leo XIV celebrates first Mass with cardinals
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Seven Things to Know About the American Pope
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Credit the Chicago nuns for Robert Prevost's rise to pope
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Pope Leo XIV's 'godly' path from Chicago to the Vatican
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Pope Leo XIV and Immigration
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Who is the new Pope Leo XIV and what are his views?
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Catholic Americans rejoice for Pope Leo XIV
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Chicago and Illinois politicians praise 'Da Pope'
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What's in a name? Why the new pope chose to be Leo XIV
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Meet Robert Prevost, the first-ever pope born in the US
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What we know about Leo XIV, the new American pope
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Vatican conclave chooses first American-born pope
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FAQ

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Cardinal Robert Prevost is a 69-year-old Chicago native and an Augustinian friar. He is an alumnus of Villanova University and was appointed cardinal less than two years before his election as Pope Leo XIV, making him the first American and Augustinian pope.

Pope Leo XIV emphasized peace, social justice, and a commitment to the marginalized, stating his intention to continue Pope Francis' legacy. He spoke about building bridges and welcoming all, highlighting the church's role in working together for a more inclusive world.

Pope Leo XIV is the first U.S.-born pope and the first Augustinian friar elected as pontiff, making his election a landmark event in Catholic Church history.

Pope Leo XIV has been outspoken on climate action and social justice, aiming to engage global leaders to foster dialogue and address these pressing issues.

Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti announced the election from the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica following the traditional 'Habemus Papam' formula after white smoke appeared from the Sistine Chapel.

History

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